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As a hurricane approaches your area, you may have to evacuate - whether mandatory or voluntary. Without proper planning, you can find yourself stuck in endless traffic, taking the wrong roads, running out of fuel or supplies, or otherwise endangered.
Here are some tips to help plan for an evacuation:
Here are some tips to help plan for an evacuation:
- Before a disaster, plan some locations where your family can meet, both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood.
- Familiarize yourself with other methods of transportation to use to take out of your local area in case of extenuating circumstances. Choose several destinations in different directions, so you have options in an emergency.
- If you have a car and an evacuation seems likely, keep the gas tank full and do not let it fall below half-full. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies or unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
- Plan how you will leave if you must evacuate without a car. Arrange with family, friends or your local government.
- Take an emergency supply kit, unless you have reason to believe it is contaminated.
- Don’t wait until the last minute; leave early enough to avoid the possibility of being trapped by the severe weather.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. Be alert for any road hazards, such as washed-out roads or bridges as well as downed power lines.
- Do not take shortcuts as they may be blocked. Follow the recommended evacuation routes.
- Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions.
- Take your pets with you and make specific plans for their care during an emergency. Be advised that only service animals may be permitted in public shelters.
