Hurricane season is underway, and according to Ready.gov, it is essential to have an evacuation plan ready to ensure the safety of you and your family in the event of a potential storm or other type of disaster. Emergency services may require urgent evacuation and preparedness is needed for you and your family to remain safe. Ready.gov provided the following tips on how to plan and develop an evacuation strategy in the event of a natural disaster:
Before a Disaster:
- Plan how you will leave and where you will go.
- Go through every possible evacuation route and discuss where you can stay, such as motels, friends or families’ houses, or shelters.
- Discuss plans with your family in case you get separated, such as where to meet in the event someone gets lost.
- Prepare “go bags” and place them in essential places, such as houses, cars or workspaces.
- Always listen to what emergency services says in the event of a natural disaster.
- If your mode of transportation is a car, be sure to always keep a full tank of gas.
- If you do not have a car, discuss other ways to evacuate.
During an Evacuation:
- Download the FEMA app for a list of open shelters during an active disaster in your local area.
- Follow all evacuation instructions from your local authorities.
- Remember to grab your “go bags” while evacuating.
- Try to leave as soon as possible.
- Bring pets but remember that only service animals are allowed at evacuation shelters.
- Follow evacuation routes and do not take shortcuts, as they may be blocked by flooding or downed power lines.
- If time allows, secure your house and unplug all electric outlets.
By utilizing these tips, you and your loved ones will become much more prepared in the event of a potential evacuation. Safety is always the top priority, and preparedness in this case can save lives and benefit everyone.
For more information and hurricane preparation tips, visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes.