Evacuations

Evacuation orders are issued only when necessary to protect public safety. They may be given in response to a variety of situations, such as wildfires, flooding, hazardous material incidents, or other emergencies. When an evacuation is announced, it’s important to follow the guidance of emergency officials to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Know the Terms and What They Mean

Evacuation Warning

An Evacuation Warning indicates a potential threat to life or property. This is a time to begin preparing to evacuate, especially important for those who may need more time, such as individuals with pets or livestock.

Evacuation Order

An Evacuation Order signals an immediate threat to life. It is a lawful command to leave the area immediately, as the location is closed to public access for safety reasons.

Before an Evacuation

Plan Ahead

  • Talk with your household members about how you’ll respond to different types of emergencies that might require evacuation to build your family emergency plan.
  • Learn the evacuation procedures for your workplace, schools, mobile home park, apartment building, and other places you live at or visit regularly.  Everyone must do their part to be prepared!
  • Choose one or more meeting spots in case you’re not together when an evacuation is ordered. These could be community centers, houses of friends or family, or other safe, familiar locations.
  • Plan for your pets. Most public human shelters only allow service animals, so be ready with transportation, carriers, food, water, and any necessary supplies.
  • Build a support network of neighbors, friends, or relatives whom you can call for assistance when an evacuation warning or order is issued.  
  • Document your belongings. Take photos or videos of household items and record model and serial numbers where possible.
  • Prepare early. Identify at least two exit routes from your home and work, and practice them in advance.
  • Create a prioritized “go list” of items to take with you if time permits. Whenever possible, prepare a separate essential documents and supplies kit in advance, with copies or duplicates of important items. This can save valuable time during an evacuation and help ensure you have what you need, even if the originals are lost or inaccessible.  
    Examples include:
    • Identification and proof of address (driver’s license, lease, deed)
    • Insurance documents and contact numbers
    • Vital records (birth, marriage certificates, wills)
    • Financial items (credit cards, checkbook)
    • Medications, medical devices, eyeglasses
    • Personal essentials (address book, comfort items for you or your children)
    • Charged phone, charging cable, and portable charger
    • Irreplaceable keepsakes (photos, heirlooms, small valuables)
    • Emergency supplies (water, non-perishable food, flashlight, radio, blankets)
    • Cash (recommend keeping a small reserve on hand)
    • Area maps 

During an Evacuation Warning

  • Gather up flammable items from the exterior of the house and bring them inside (patio furniture, children's toys, door mats, trash cans, etc.) or place them in your pool.
  • Turn off propane tanks.
  • Move propane appliances (BBQ, heaters, etc.) away from structures.
  • Connect garden hoses to outside water valves.
  • Fill water buckets and leave them around your house.
  • Turn off sprinklers and running water, as it wastes critical water pressure.
  • Leave exterior lights on.
  • Put your emergency supply kit in your vehicle.
  • Back your car into the driveway with it loaded and all doors and windows closed.
  • Carry your keys with you.
  • If you have a ladder, place it at the corner of the house for firefighters to quickly access the roof.
  • Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals.
  • Check on neighbors and make sure they are preparing to leave.
  • Monitor your property and fire situation. You do not have to wait for an evacuation order if you feel threatened.
  • Prepare horses or livestock for transport and consider moving them to a safe location early.

Indoors

  • Shut all windows and doors, leaving them unlocked.
  • Remove flammable window shades and curtains and close metal shutters.
  • Move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors.
  • Shut off the gas at the meter. Turn off pilot lights.
  • Leave your lights on so firefighters can see your hose under smoky conditions.
  • Shut off the air conditioning or heater.
  • Locate your pets and keep them nearby.

During an Evacuation Order

  • Stay calm and follow official instructions closely.
  • Use your time wisely, pack according to your priority list, and avoid unnecessary phone calls.
  • Secure pets in carriers or on leashes before leaving.
  • Take essential medications and medical equipment.
  • Protect valuables as appropriate for the type of hazard (fire, flood, severe weather).
  • Turn off electricity at the main switch; leave natural gas on unless told otherwise.
  • Close doors and windows before you go.
  • Leave a note with your destination for emergency personnel; make it weather-resistant by using paint, marker, or another weather-resistant method.
  • Check in at the designated shelter or evacuation center, even if you plan to stay elsewhere, so officials can confirm your safe and share important updates.

After an Emergency

  • Return home only when officials say it’s safe to do so.
  • Avoid sightseeing, as unnecessary traffic can slow emergency response and recovery efforts.
  • Take care of your emotional well-being. Free counseling may be available through the Red Cross, your employer, or local organizations.
  • If your home is undamaged, offer support to neighbors who have been affected.
  • If your home is damaged, move cautiously and avoid making rushed decisions.
  • Contact your insurance provider promptly and follow their guidance on claims and repairs.
  • Explore available disaster assistance programs at the local, state, and federal levels for grants, loans, or other support for individuals and businesses.