Fast Evacuation Tips When There’s Not Much Time
When an emergency requires you to evacuate, acting quickly and efficiently is crucial for ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. This high-level overview provides essential tips for actual evacuation, including where to go, preparing an emergency kit, managing important documents, ensuring pet safety, and making emergency calls.
1. Know Where to Go
a. Pre-Identified Locations:
Local Shelters: Know the locations of local shelters and evacuation centers. Your community’s emergency management office can provide this information.
Meeting Points: Have two designated meeting points: one near your home for sudden emergencies and one outside your immediate area for broader evacuations.
b. Routes and Alternatives:
Primary Routes: Follow the primary evacuation routes recommended by local authorities. These routes are usually monitored and cleared of obstacles.
Alternative Routes: Have alternative routes planned in case the primary routes are blocked or unsafe.
2. Emergency Kit Fast Pack
a. Essentials:
Go-Bag: Ensure each family member has a go-bag ready with essential items, including:
Water: At least one gallon per person per day.
Food: Non-perishable food items for at least three days.
Flashlight and Batteries: For visibility and signaling.
First-Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies and personal medications.
Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.
Personal Hygiene: Toiletries and personal hygiene items.
Cash: Small denominations for emergencies.
b. Additional Items:
Portable Charger: For keeping mobile phones and other devices powered.
Multi-Tool: For various emergency tasks.
Blankets or Sleeping Bags: For warmth and comfort.
3. Important Documents
a. Gather Documents:
Identification: Copies of driver’s licenses, passports, and social security cards.
Financial Records: Bank account information, credit card details, and recent statements.
Insurance Policies: Copies of all insurance policies, including home, auto, health, and life insurance.
Medical Records: Important medical records and a list of medications.
b. Storage:
Waterproof Container: Store physical copies of documents in a waterproof container to protect them from damage.
Digital Backups: Keep digital copies of important documents stored securely online or on a portable USB drive.
4. Pet Safety
a. Pet Supplies:
Pet Go-Bag: Prepare a go-bag for each pet, including:
Food and Water: At least three days' supply.
Medications: Any necessary medications and medical records.
Leash and Collar: A leash, collar, and ID tags.
Carrier or Crate: A carrier or crate for safe transport.
b. Pet-Friendly Shelters:
Shelter Information: Know which local shelters and hotels accept pets. Have a list of pet-friendly accommodations.
5. Making Emergency Calls
a. Important Contacts:
Emergency Services: Know how to contact local emergency services (911 in many areas).
Family and Friends: Have a list of contact information for family members and friends.
Out-of-Town Contact: Designate an out-of-town contact person who can help relay information.
b. Communication:
Notify Authorities: Inform local authorities of your evacuation, especially if you have special needs or require assistance.
Update Contacts: Keep your designated contact person updated on your location and status.
6. Evacuation Procedures
a. Act Quickly:
Immediate Evacuation: When an evacuation order is given, leave immediately to avoid getting caught in traffic or hazardous conditions.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to instructions from local authorities and emergency responders.
b. Safety Measures:
Lock Up: Lock all doors and windows before leaving to protect your home from theft and vandalism.
Shut Off Utilities: If instructed, shut off utilities such as gas, water, and electricity to prevent further damage.
Learn More
Effective evacuation in an emergency requires thorough preparation and quick action. We’re going to unpack these tips further over the next few articles. Off we go…