Getting Ready for An Evacuation Emergency

What To Prepare so you are ready to Evacuate your Home

Of course none of us want to be involved in an emergency where we have to leave our homes.  However, the odds are we will probably have to evacuate at some time, for some thing, even if it's very short term. 

This is a scary realization, but one you can prepare for.  There is a great article by houselogic.com that lists things I hadn't thought of before.  To see the entire article, go here:  What to do and what to take when evacuating your home

A summary of what they teach is to have :

1. A 72 hour kit.  This is a kit that includes essential supplies, such as water, food, and first-aid supplies so you could live for three days away from your home.

They also have a list to teach what should go in that kit here:  What to Put in an Emergency Kit

Another updated 2019 kit list: 72 hour kit list

72 hour kits for kids: 72 hour kits for kids

One more list! 72 hour kit list

2. Copies of important papers. Put these in a waterproof folder.  Include:

• Driver's license.
• Deed to your home
• Insurance, medical records
• Passports, Social Security cards
• Contacts, including one out of state

Site with free downloads for an emergency documents kit: How to make an emergency documents kit

3. Make sure pets are microchipped and you have some food stored from them as well.

4. Prepare your yard by removing overhanging branches.

5. Know how to shut off your water and gas.  

Here are some tips from FEMA about shutting off utilities: Know your utility shutoffs. Tips for shutting off Utilities

What to do when it's time to Evacuate

1. Turn off utilities.  Turn off water and electricity.  Make sure you are prepared to have the gas company turn your gas back on if you turn it off.  

2. Cover windows and doors to protect from high winds. 

3. Move valuables higher in your home. 

4. Take pets with you. 

5. Lock your house.

6. Listen to the authorities, but don't wait for the evacuation order.  If you feel it's unsafe to stay, leave sooner than later.  

7. Don't use a match when you return to your home until you've made sure there is no gas leak inside your home. 

8. Stay informed.  Make sure you stay in tune with emergency and city services.