Know your Local Emergency Evacuation Plans & Disaster Communication Plans

Evacuating from disasters has become much more prevalent in recent years, particularly in coastal regions. All Americans should understand their local emergency evacuation plans and routes. You should also become familiar with your local disaster communication plans and warning systems. If instructed to evacuate immediately, gather your family, pets and emergency kits and go as soon as possible. When evacuating, stay away from downed power lines, and watch out for washed out roads, bridges or other flooded areas. 

Disaster official recommend creating a family emergency preparedness plan to document specifically how your family will react during a disaster. A family emergency preparedness plan will document what evacuation routes are available, how you will communicate to family and friends, type of emergency kits ans supplies to have on hand, what transportation alternatives are available, how to handle your pets, and much more. Otherwise, waiting until a disaster strikes to decide what to do can cause delays, confusions, stress and possibly loss of life. You can use ReadyNation's online program to create your own custom Family Emergency Preparedness Plan. Below are additional tips on evacuating for a disaster.

Communication:

• Make sure to let others know where you are going. Take into account your employer’s and school’s emergency evacuation plans.  Implement your family's disaster communication plan if normal communications are impaired.
• Tune into your local emergency station and listen to local emergency evacuation plans and instructions. If necessary, use your battery-powered radio. Also listen for the EMERGENCY BROADCAST NEWS STATION (EAS) – The EAS can address the nation on short notice in case of grave threat or national emergency. Most local radio and TV stations participate in the broadcasting EAS announcements.

Automobile Preparation:

• Keep a full tank of gas in your car if you think you may have to evacuate. Place your emergency kits and supplies in your car.

• Only take one car per family to reduce congestion on evacuation routes.

• If you do not have a transportation plan, and need assistance, immediately call your local emergency and transportation officials.

• Always follow your local officials’ emergency evacuation plan and instructions and do not take shortcuts. Other routes may be blocked during emergencies.

School and Work :

• If your family is separated and is at school or work, review their work and school emergency evacuation plans and know how to react. If school or employers institute shelter-in-place procedures, you may not be allowed to enter the campus area, or pick up your family members. Also, your school or employer may evacuate to another area in case of an emergency. Use our online tool to create your custom Family Emergency Preparedness Plan that incorporates this information so you won’t be caught off guard.

Home and Personal Preparation:

• Wear clothing that provides protection from the elements such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a hat.

• Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and unplugging all electrical equipment and appliances. Leave refrigerators and freezers plugged in and on unless there is a danger of flooding.