You should evacuate under the following conditions:

• If you are directed by local authorities to do so.
• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure—such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
• If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
• If you feel you are in danger.

What to do if asked/told to evacuate

• Listen to radio or TV and follow local evacuation instructions.
• Check and replenish your Emergency Supply Kit (below).
• Fill your car's gas tank if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages.
• Gather all persons in the household together.
• Call household members so you know everyone's status. People outside the area may not be able to return home during an evacuation.  They may be directed to a reception center or shelter where you can join them.
• Call or email the “out-of-state” contact in your family communications plan, and tell them where you are going.
• Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provide some protection, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap.
• Protect your house.
• Cover outside windows with hurricane shutters or plywood.
• Move valuable items to inner rooms or upper floors.
• Secure all loose yard items like lawn furniture, BBQ grills, bird baths, trash cans, planters, awnings, etc.
• Close curtains and shades.
• If there is damage to your home and/or you are instructed to do so, shut off electricity, gas, propane, and water at main switches and valves. Otherwise:
• Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding. Turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Unplug unnecessary electrical equipment, such as radios, televisions and small appliances like toasters and microwaves.
• Turn off lights.
• Close and lock windows and doors.
• Take only one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
• Ask neighbors if they need assistance; offer to share transportation.
• Notify others when you are leaving and where you plan to go.
• Take pets, but understand that only service animals may be permitted in public shelters.
• If you need a ride, go with a neighbor or contact your local Emergency Management Office.
• Load your Emergency Supply Kit and all who are travelling together and leave.
• Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather.
• Follow recommended evacuation routes; do not take shortcuts because they may be blocked. Become familiar with alternate routes.
• Be alert for washed-out roads and bridges and do not drive into flooded areas.
• Stay away from downed power lines.
• Do not call fire or police departments for information. Emergency workers need their lines for emergency use. If you need special help, call your local Emergency Management Office.

Evacuation Supply Kit

• Important family papers (insurance policies, identification, bank records) in waterproof container.
• Checkbook, , credit card, cash (banks and ATMs may be closed for extended periods).
• Sleeping bag or blanket, pillows, towels.
• Water (1 gallon per person for 3-7 days).
• Non-perishable food (3-7 day supply), cooking tools, fuel, can opener.
• Disposable utensils, plates, cups.
• Radio (battery powered or hand-crank) and NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries.
• Cell phone and charger.
• Extra clothes, including rain gear.
• Hygiene articles (moist towelettes, garbage bags, paper towels, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.).
• Items for unique family needs (prescription medications, medical records, infant formula and diapers, etc.).
• Pet care items.
  • Identification/immunization records.
  • Ample supply of food and water.
  • Carrier or cage.
• Medications.
• Muzzle and leash.
• Games, toys, favorite stuffed animal or blanket, books, crayons, and paper.
• Flashlight and batteries.
• First aid kit.

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