Are You Prepared for an Emergency Evacuation?

Preparedness Comes First

First things first, if you want to be able to evacuate safely in an emergency evacuation, you’re going to need to make some plans. That means before an emergency evacuation is even called for, you should know what you need to do with your home, your pets, your valuables, etc.

If an emergency evacuation is called for, you’re not going to have time to plan or prepare. You’ll need to have plans in place in order to evacuate quickly. Make a checklist of things that you need to do with your home, a plan of what you can do with your pets, and a list of what you need to bring with you should an emergency evacuation occur.

Plan Your Routes

Take a look at the different routes that lead outside of your community. Map these routes out. While it’s important to only follow the routes that are instructed by authorities, knowing where the routes go and which routes you can take will help you in the event of an emergency evacuation.

A Meeting Place

Plan a meeting place with your family. In the case of an emergency evacuation, everyone may not be accounted for when the evacuation is called for. It’s important that all members of your family have a “go to” spot should an emergency evacuation be called.

During an Emergency Evacuation

When an emergency evacuation is called for, secure your home and gather food, water, clothing and your important personal documents and get out of Dodge. Make sure that you wear protective clothing and shoes that are sturdy and strong, yet comfortable enough for walking.

Leave early enough during the emergency evacuation so you can avoid traffic crowds or severe weather. Make sure that you follow only recommended routes. Other routes not recommended in the emergency evacuation may be blocked off or impassable, putting you in danger.