Home fires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, mudslides, earthquakes, loss of electrical power, volcanoes, tsunamis, radiation threats, chemical threats, and terrorist threats are among the various natural and man-made hazards that may make evacuation from your home necessary.

EVACUATION AT A MOMENTS NOTICE

Some of these hazards give adequate time to prepare for evacuation and others require being ready at a moments notice. That’s why pre-planning and having Grab-and-Go bags is so vital!

Communities that have experienced natural disasters that required mass evacuation have published evacuation plans pre-determined by local authorities. Many places have road signs designating evacuation routes.

While it is best to follow established evacuation routes recommended by authorities, watching people trying to escape from Katrina on clogged freeways and then running out of gas only re-enforces the need to have contingency plans. Plan at least two alternate evacuation routes. Include detailed maps and directions. Keep copies in all your vehicles.

GPS SYSTEMS (GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS)

Emergency radio broadcasts will alert you to any traffic conditions or alternative recommended routes. Many people have GPS systems and these can be extremely helpful if you have to take unfamiliar routes. Cell phone companies offer GPS service.

Remember: for traveler information dial 511 or www.511.com

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WHAT TO DO BEFORE EVACUATING YOUR HOME

The checklist is based on the assumption you will have at least a few minutes, hours and at times days to get ready for evacuation. Evacuate early enough to avoid severe weather and traffic tie-ups. For a few disasters there will be no time and the only thing you and your family will be able to do is hopefully grab your Grab-and-Go bags on your way out the door and get in your vehicle and leave your home.

KEEP GAS TANK AT LEAST HALF-FILLED

Getting into the habit of keeping your gas tank at least half-filled at all times will make sure you are able to evacuate on short notice.

Place this checklist in your personal notebook and post in a place where family members will be able to periodically review such as where you have placed your Grab-and-Go bags.

CRITICAL NOTE: PRE-ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION

If you are elderly, handicapped or do not have your own transportation, pre-arrange transportation with family, friends, neighbors or emergency services. Have a back-up plan in place.

Churches can play a significant role in helping coordinate such transportation services.