Preparing to Evacuate (but hoping we never have to evacuate!)

A snippet on the evening news this week reminded me that it may be necessary to evacuate our homes at a moment's notice. Why tempt fate in 2020? It's a good time to expand the 'family fire drill' to include family evacuation preparation for all kinds of emergencies (house or wild fire, mud slide, severe earthquake, etc.) We can gather many recommended evacuation items in advance and be ready to carry them out the door with us.

First, designate a space near an exit in your home where the things you’ve prepared in advance will be stored, then post this list nearby so that you can gather items as calmly as possible. 

[For a more comprehensive list of good ideas for emergency preparation, go to ready.gov. In an actual crisis situation, download the FEMA app to find out about local resources.] 

Grab PEOPLE and PETS (of course) 

 [That’s the end of the list, if there isn’t time to grab anything else.] 

Grab the essentials you use every day: 

·       Medications and medical equipment (like CPAPs, inhalers...)

·       Vision supplies: glasses, readers, contact lenses and gear

Grab records, electronics, and valuables: 

·       Family pictures and movies (or digital version of) – store near exit

·       Updated hard drive of computer files 

·       Phones and laptops with chargers 

·       Valuables 

Grab the binder (prepared in advance and stored in a fire safe near an exit.) It contains:

·       Copies of (or actual) ID (drivers licenses, passports)

·       Cash, (copies of ) Credit Cards, and a Checkbook

·       Documents (birth and marriage certificates, social security cards, wills, deeds and titles, insurance coverage information, Rx lists, etc.) 

·       Extra copies of keys (home, office, storage unit, safe deposit box...)

·       List of current prescription medications

Grab the duffle bag (prepared in advance and stored near an exit.) It contains: 

·       Toiletries and hygiene supplies 

·       One spare outfit per person (set of clothes and shoes)

·       Jacket per person

·       Flashlight + batteries

·       Hand-cranked radio 

·       Pet supplies: leash, bowls, food, blanket, cage…

Grab sleeping bags and pillows (and maybe a tent.) – Store near an exit.

Grab food and water. 

More excellent information at:

https://www.ready.gov/evacuation