Where To Go Before You Go

  • Updated on Oct 13, 2024
  • Published on Jun 19, 2024
  • 3 minute(s) read

Before Getting in the Car, Know Where You Are Going

When an emergency strikes and evacuation becomes necessary, knowing where to go is crucial for ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. Proper planning can make the evacuation process smoother and less stressful.

This article provides essential tips on identifying safe destinations and routes before you need to evacuate, helping you to be well-prepared for any emergency.

1. Identify Safe Destinations

a. Local Shelters:

  • Community Centers: Local community centers, schools, and churches often serve as emergency shelters. Contact your local emergency management office to find the nearest shelters.

  • Red Cross Shelters: The American Red Cross operates shelters during disasters. Check their website or contact local chapters for shelter locations.

b. Out-of-Town Contacts:

  • Family and Friends: Arrange to stay with family or friends who live outside the immediate danger zone. Ensure they know your evacuation plans and have agreed to host you.

  • Hotels and Motels: Identify pet-friendly hotels and motels along your evacuation routes. Make a list of options and consider making reservations if time allows.

2. Plan Evacuation Routes

a. Primary Routes:

  • Official Routes: Use evacuation routes recommended by local authorities. These routes are typically monitored and cleared of obstacles during emergencies.

  • Multiple Options: Plan at least two different routes to your destination in case one is blocked or becomes unsafe.

b. Alternative Routes:

  • Back Roads: Familiarize yourself with back roads and alternative paths that may not be as congested as main roads during an evacuation.

  • Navigation Tools: Use GPS devices or smartphone apps that provide real-time traffic updates and alternative routes.

c. Maps:

  • Paper Maps: If you have any maps of the area, this is a good time to grab them.

  • Print Out Maps: If you have time, and own a printer, printing a map ahead of time may be helpful as well given local power and communications may not always be available.

3. Prepare Your Vehicle

a. Maintenance:

  • Regular Checks: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and ready for an emergency. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and battery health regularly.

  • Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times. Gas stations may be closed or inaccessible during an evacuation.

b. Emergency Supplies:

  • Car Kit: Assemble a car emergency kit that includes a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, basic tools, blankets, and bottled water.

  • Maps: Keep physical maps of your area and evacuation routes in your vehicle in case electronic navigation devices fail.

4. Assemble an Emergency Kit

a. Go-Bag:

  • Essentials: Prepare a go-bag for each family member with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, clothing, and personal hygiene items.

  • Pets: Include supplies for pets, such as food, water, medications, leashes, and carriers.

b. Important Documents:

  • Copies: Gather copies of important documents, including identification, insurance policies, medical records, and financial information. Store them in a waterproof container.

  • Digital Backups: Keep digital copies of important documents on a secure, password-protected cloud service.

5. Stay Informed

a. Alerts and Warnings:

  • Emergency Notifications: Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications to receive real-time updates on weather conditions and evacuation orders.

  • Monitor News: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about emergency broadcasts if you lose power or internet access.

6. Coordinate with Family and Neighbors

a. Communication Plan:

  • Contacts: Establish a family communication plan that includes emergency contact information for all family members and a designated out-of-town contact person.

  • Updates: Ensure everyone knows how to reach each other during an emergency and where to meet if separated.

b. Neighbor Network:

  • Share Plans: Inform trusted neighbors of your evacuation plans and share contact information. Offer to check on each other’s homes and provide assistance if needed.

7. Practice Regular Drills

a. Conduct Drills:

  • Evacuation Practice: Regularly practice your evacuation plan with your family, including routes and meeting points. Conduct drills for different scenarios to ensure everyone knows what to do.

  • Review and Update: Review and update your evacuation plan annually or whenever there are significant changes in your family or living situation. Ensure your emergency kits are stocked and in good condition.

Wrap-Up

Knowing where to go before you need to evacuate is a critical component of emergency preparedness. By identifying safe destinations, planning evacuation routes, preparing your vehicle, assembling an emergency kit, staying informed, coordinating with family and neighbors, and practicing regular drills, you can ensure a smoother and safer evacuation process.

Taking these steps today will help you protect your loved ones and be ready for any emergency that may arise.