Family Plans
Planning an Evacuation Before You Ever Need One
Knowing where you would go, how you would get there and what you would bring turns a hurried departure into steps you have already rehearsed.
Most people will never face an evacuation order. Those who do often have little time to decide what to do. Wildfires, hurricanes, floods and hazardous material spills can all lead local officials to ask residents to leave, sometimes with very short notice. The households that leave most smoothly are usually the ones that worked out the details ahead of time.
An evacuation plan does not need to be complicated. It answers four questions: How will we know to go? Where will we go? How will we get there? What will we bring?
How will we know to go?
Evacuation orders come from local officials, and the most important rule is simple: when they tell you to leave, leave. Make sure you will hear them.
- Turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on every phone.
- Sign up for your county or city's free alert system.
- Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio that receives NOAA Weather Radio and local broadcasts.
- Find out whether you live in a designated evacuation zone. Many coastal and wildfire-prone communities publish zone maps, and officials often issue orders by zone.
Learn the difference between an evacuation warning or advisory, which means you should get ready and consider leaving early, and an evacuation order, which means leave now. The exact terms vary by state and county, so learn the ones your area uses. If your household includes young children, older relatives, pets or large animals, or if you simply need extra time, leaving at the warning stage is often the wise choice.
Where will we go?
Choose at least two destinations in different directions, because the safe direction depends on the event. Options include:
- Friends or relatives outside the area
- A hotel or motel, ideally one you have checked in advance for pet policies if you have animals
- A public shelter opened by local officials or a relief organization
Write down the address and phone number for each. Ask your hosts now whether they would be glad to have you, and offer to return the favor.
How will we get there?
Plan more than one route out of your neighborhood, since roads may be closed or congested. Drive your routes once in calm conditions so they feel familiar, and keep a paper map in the car in case phones or navigation apps are not working.
A few habits help:
- Ready.gov suggests keeping at least a half tank of fuel in your car when an evacuation is possible, since gas stations may be closed or busy.
- Keep the car's emergency kit stocked.
- Follow the routes officials recommend, even if a shortcut looks faster. Some roads may be closed for safety.
- Never drive through flooded roads. The National Weather Service's "Turn Around, Don't Drown" guidance warns that six inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet and about a foot of moving water can sweep away most cars.
If you do not have a car, plan now. Ask your local emergency management office whether public transportation will be provided during evacuations, and arrange rides with neighbors, friends or family. People with disabilities can often register in advance with local agencies for evacuation assistance.
What will we bring?
A helpful memory aid for a fast departure is the "five Ps":
- People and pets, along with pet supplies and crates
- Prescriptions, medical equipment, glasses and hearing aids
- Papers, including your grab-and-go document file
- Personal needs, such as clothing, phone chargers, food, water and your 72-hour kit
- Priceless items, such as photos, heirlooms or a laptop with family records
Tape the five Ps list inside a closet door near your emergency kit so you do not have to think it through under pressure.
If you have time before you leave
When an order gives you a little time, a few extra steps can help protect your home:
- Bring in outdoor furniture and anything the wind could move.
- Unplug electrical appliances.
- Turn off utilities only if local officials instruct you to. If you turn off natural gas, a professional must turn it back on, which can take time.
- Lock doors and windows.
- Let your out-of-area contact know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
Wear sturdy shoes and clothing suited to the weather. Leave early enough to avoid heavy traffic or worsening conditions.
Practice the plan
Run a short drill once a year. Set a timer for 15 minutes and see how quickly your household can gather the five Ps and be ready at the door. Most families find something to fix, such as a missing charger, a pet crate stored in the attic or a kit that needs updating. It is far better to learn that on a quiet weekend.
After an evacuation
Return home only when officials say it is safe. Watch for downed power lines, damaged roads and standing water. If you smell gas, leave right away and call the gas company from a safe distance. Photograph any damage for insurance purposes before you start cleaning up, and check in with neighbors who may need a hand.
This article offers general preparedness information and is not professional advice. Always follow the instructions of local officials during an emergency. Spotted an error? Email support@preparedamerican.net. Read our editorial standards.
