Oftentimes, individuals and/or communities are asked to evaluate their homes when a natural disaster is imminent. Government officials are responsible for issuing evacuation orders and usually do so through methods such as radio and television. Do not wait – Evacuate! If an evacuation order is given. You’re life and the lives of your loves ones depend upon it.
A comprehensive evacuation plan should include several evacuation routes (in case some of them close), a predetermined destination, and alternative destinations’ just in case you cannot reach the primary due to road conditions.
Your local government is an excellent resource so check out their website to find out what type of emergency planning and evacuation methods are provided.
Important things to remember:
- Know your destination should you have to evacuate. You may need to stay at a hotel, shelter, or if you have friends and family nearby then you may need to stay with them. If you have pets then you need to make sure you include them in your evacuation plan as well.
- Map out Directions. Make sure you make note of the main routes and several alternate routes to your planned evacuation destination. You should make note of the routes to a predetermined alternate location.
- Protect your property. Depending on the type of property you have, this may feel like a cumbersome task. Develop a comprehensive list as soon as you can to make sure that you are prepared no matter what happens.
- If you have time before the disaster strikes, make sure that all loose items are secured. This includes anything that may do potential damage during a flood or high winds.
- Create a comprehensive list of important tasks such as turning off utilities, water, etc. Turning off natural gas however, should only occur if you are instructed to do so by authorities. You have other type of property that needs to be taken care of, include these in your plan. Examples would include car collections, boats, outdoor equipment, etc.
- Create an emergency contact list. This list should include the names of individuals that you want to contact should a natural disaster occur. The phone numbers and addresses should be included for each person on the list, so you can inform them that you are okay and/or contact them for help.
- Compile and secure important documents. This list should consist of very important documents such as financial and legal documents. These documents should be store in a location in which they will be preserved.
