Step 18 Evacuation

Evacuation
A wide variety of emergencies may cause an evacuation. In some instances you may have a day or two to prepare, while other situations might call for an immediate evacuation.

Planning ahead is vital to ensuring that you can evacuate quickly and safely, no matter what the circumstances. Local police and fire agencies take evacuation orders very seriously and only issue them when there is a very serious threat to the safety of the public! If you are directed to evacuate do so and follow all instructions!

Plan Ahead 

• If an emergency is developing monitor the situation (weather, fire, flooding, etc.)
• Anticipate evacuation prepare and gather items in advance
• Develop a family communication and reunification plan
• Know how you will leave and where you will go (Friends home, hotel, shelter)
• Be familiar with alternate routes and public evacuations plans
• If there is time, take important items with you:
• Food, water, blankets, batteries, flashlight, portable radio, first aid kit, tents or tarps
• Documents (birth certificates, insurance papers, medical records, deeds, SS cards)
• Medications, glasses contact lens, inhalers, hearing aids, crutches, canes, etc.)
• Clothing and personal care items (clothing, shoes and toiletries)
• Computers, hard drives, cell phones and chargers
• Jewelry and collectables
• Important family pictures and memorabilia
• Pets and per care and items (kennel, crate, leash, food, water, medications)

Evacuation Orders

• Once told to evacuate, go immediately and follow the instructions of authorities
• Do not wait to see if the situation will get worse
• Check on and assist neighbors if there is time and if it is safe to do so
• Do not return until given official notice that it is safe to do so