Create an Evacuation Plan

Deciding "to go" is one thing. Knowing where you are going and how you will get there takes solid planning. An evacuation plan streamlines family communication. It puts everyone on the same page to quickly move everyone to safety.

Here are a few tips on how to create your family's evacuation plan. Think about special needs of family members, your pets, and your location.

Make Your Family Plans to Go

1. Plan places where your family will meet. Decide on places both within and outside of your neighborhood. "The telephone pole across the street" might be good for inside your neighborhood. A school, public building, or place of worship is a good choice outside of your neighborhood.
   
   
2. If you have a car, keep a half tank of gas in it at all times in case you need to evacuate. Back into your garage when you park to make sure you have an easy exit.
   
   
3. Become familiar with different routes and other means of transportation out of your area.
   
   
4. If you do not have a car, plan another way to get out.
   
   
5. Take your emergency supply kit unless it is contaminated.
   
   
6. Lock the door behind you.
   
   
7. Plan how you will care for your pets in an emergency. Take your pets with you, but keep in mind that only service animals like seeing-eye dogs are permitted in most public shelters.

Plus, If You Have Time

1. Call or email your out-of-state contacts in your family communications plan.
   
   
2. Tell them where you are going.
   
   
3. Shut off water, gas, and electricity before leaving if you are instructed to do so.
   
   
4. Leave a note telling others when you left and where you're going.
   
   
5. Check with neighbors who may need a ride.