From the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes:

Have an evacuation plan

• Discuss what to do in an evacuation with everyone in your family.
• Know where you will go if an evacuation is called.
• Review at least two exit routes from your home or neighborhood to a designated meeting place for your family.
• Don’t forget about your pets; most public shelters will only allow service animals. A pet shelter will be set up. Be sure to bring their current vaccination & veterinary records, medicines, registration information, and comfort items, special foods.

Pack your bags

• After a disaster, you may not be able to return to your home for some time.
• Assemble everything your family will need in advance if you must evacuate your home.
• Pack one change of clothes and shoes per person as well as one blanket or sleeping bag per person.
• Create a first aid kit that includes your family’s prescription medications.
• Pack important documents including a picture id and proof of residency (e.g. a utility bill with your address).  Write down the name of your insurance company, policy number and telephone number and keep it in a safe place.
• Include an extra set of car keys, your credit cards, cash. Don’t forget your important emergency contact numbers.
• Pack sanitation supplies and special items for babies, senior citizens or disabled family members
• Bring extra eyeglasses and a favorite family board game to help pass the time away from home.

If you must evacuate

Before You Go

• If there is damage to your home and you are instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving.
• Post a note telling when you left and where you are going; include a contact phone number.
• Don’t forget about your petsand be sure to lock your home.

Evacuate Immediately

• Evacuate immediately if authorities tell you to do so.
• Listen to your battery-powered radio and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
• Wear layered warm, dry clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Be sure to take your disaster supply kitwith you to a shelter or safe location. Use travel routes specified by local authorities — don’t use shortcuts.

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