Fire Department - Emergency Management

Quick Safety Tips
Leaving Home/Evacuation

During an emergency, if you are evacuating . . .

• Enact your family disaster plan and pet plan.
  
  
• Evacuate quickly if told to do so. 
  DO NOT get stranded.
  
  
• Take your disaster supply kit with you and your pet's kit.
  
  
• Bring important family documents in a waterproof container.
  
  
• Map out your route, using travel routes specified by local authorities.
  DO NOT get on the road without a place to go.
  
  
• If possible, evacuate to the home of either friends or family in a non-vulnerable area within your county.  Next, try a motel or hotel and as a last resort go to a shelter. Remember, shelters are not designated for comfort.
  
  
• Notify family or friends of your plans. When you are leaving and where your are going.
  
  
• Fill you car with gasoline. Take only the vehicle you will need to get you and your family to safety to reduce the amount of traffic on the roads.
  
  
• Bring extra cash. Banks may be closed, ATMs may not work.
  
  
• Stay alert to weather advisories, and know the difference between a weather Watch and a weather Warning.

Warning

A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurring. A warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property.

Watch

A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so that those who need to set their plans in motion can do so.

• If a hurricane is approaching and you have time, board up windows and glass doors, anchor loose yard objects or bring them inside and lock your doors before you leave.
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• Bring pillows and blankets.
  
  
• Bring rain gear and sturdy shoes.
  
  
• Bring toys, books and games for entertainment. (See also Helping Children Cope with Emergency Situations - Activities)
  
  
• Contact your county emergency management office for local evacuation information.
  
  
• People who require special assistance in evacuating should register with their local emergency management office.
  
  
• Do not drive where water is over the road.
  
  
• When traffic lights are out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
  
  
• After the threat - listen to local officials for the all clear.
  

After an emergency:

See Quick Tips for use when returning home after a storm.