FEMA - Prepare for Disaster/Evacuation Plans
Evacuation Plans
When
community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide
information to the public through the media. In some circumstances,
other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, also are used.
Additionally, there may be circumstances under which you and your
family feel threatened or endangered and you need to leave your home,
school, or workplace to avoid these situations.
The
amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard. If the
event is a weather condition, such as a hurricane that can be monitored,
you might have a day or two to get ready. However, many disasters allow
no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is
why planning ahead is essential.
Evacuation: More Common than You Realize
Evacuations
are more common than many people realize. Hundreds of times each year,
transportation and industrial accidents release harmful substances,
forcing thousands of people to leave their homes. Fires and floods cause
evacuations even more frequently. Almost every year, people along the
Gulf and Atlantic coasts evacuate in the face of approaching hurricanes.
Ask local authorities about emergency evacuation routes and see if maps may are available with evacuation routes marked.
Evacuation Guidelines
Always: |
If time permits: |
Keep
a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas
stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during
power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and
delay. |
Gather your disaster supplies kit. |
Make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government if you do
not own a car. |
Wear sturdy shoes and clothing
that provides some protection,
such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap. |
Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions. |
Secure your home:
Close and lock doors and windows.
Unplug
electrical equipment, such as radios and televisions, and small
appliances, such as toasters and microwaves. Leave freezers and
refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding. |
Gather your family and go if you are in- structed to evacuate immediately. |
Let others know where you are going. |
Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather. |
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Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts; they may be blocked. |
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Be alert for washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas. |
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Stay away from downed power lines. |
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