Simple evacuation guidelines in cases of emergency

There may be conditions under which
you will decide to get away or there
may be situations when you are
ordered to leave. Follow these
guidelines for evacuation:
Plan places where your family will
meet, both within and outside of your
immediate neighborhood. Use the
Family Emergency Plan to decide
these locations before a disaster.
If you have a car, keep a full tank of
gas in it if an evacuation seems likely.
Keep a half tank of gas in it at all
times in case of an unexpected need
to evacuate. Gas stations may be
closed during emergencies and unable
to pump gas during power outages.
Plan to take one car per family to
reduce congestion and delay.
Become familiar with alternate routes
and other means of transportation
out of your area. Choose several
destinations in different directions so
you have options in an emergency.
Leave early enough to avoid being
trapped by severe weather.
Follow recommended evacuation
routes. Do not take shortcuts; they
may be blocked.
Be alert for road hazards such as
washed-out roads or bridges and
downed power lines. Do not drive into
flooded areas.
If you do not have a car, plan how
you will leave if you have to. Make
arrangements with family, friends or
your local government.
Take your emergency supply kit unless
you have reason to believe it has been
contaminated.
Listen to a battery-powered radio and
follow local evacuation instructions.
Take your pets with you, but
understand that only service animals
may be permitted in public shelters.
Plan how you will care for your pets
in an emergency.
If time allows:
Call or email the out-of-state contact
in your family communications plan .
Tell them where you are going.
Secure your home by closing and
locking doors and windows.
Unplug electrical equipment such as
radios, televisions and small
appliances. Leave freezers and
refrigerators plugged in unless there is
a risk of flooding. If there is damage
to your home and you are instructed
to do so, shut off water, gas and
electricity before leaving.
Leave a note telling others when you
left and where you are going.
Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that
provides some protection such as long
pants, long-sleeved shirts and a cap.
Check with neighbors who may need a
ride.
SOURCE :http://www.ready.gov/evacuating-yourself-and-your-family

#CONSENSUS 2015