June 2009 Preparedness Tip of the Month

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Evacuation Planning

Evacuations are more common than most people realize. When evacuation is necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media or by the use of sirens or telephone calls.

Never ignore an evacuation warning.

Safe and effective evacuation requires planning ahead – there may be no advance warning.

Be sure your emergency status accountability information is included in your evacuation kit. This would be copies of your vital records such as deeds, bank account information, personal identification, etc.

If you don’t have access to a vehicle, make other arrangements ahead of time.

Plan how you will care for your animals. (See next months Preparedness Tip for more information on this topic.)

Develop a family communication procedure in the event you are separated.

Check on neighbors who may need special assistance.

Wear sturdy shoes and clothing, such as long pants, long sleeved shirts and a cap.

Secure your home by:

1) Close and lock all doors and windows.

2) Turn off all utilities if possible

3) Unplug nonessential electrical equipment. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding.


Listen to a radio or TV for local evacuation instructions.

Be safe on the road.

Take only one car to reduce congestion and delay.

Follow the recommended evacuation routes and zones; shortcuts may be inaccessible and/or blocked.

Stay alert for damaged or missing roads

Avoid downed power lines.

For more information:

FEMA

www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/evacuation.shtm


US Department of State Evacuation

http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1211.html