- A list of open shelters can be found on
- Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation
instructions.
- Take your emergency supply kit.
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe
weather.
- Take your pets with you, but understand that only service
animals may be permitted in public shelters. Plan how you will care for your pets
in an emergency now.
- If time allows:
- Call or email the out-of-state contact in your family communications plan.
Tell them where you are going.
- Secure your home by closing and locking doors and windows.
- Unplug electrical equipment such as radios, televisions and
small appliances. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in
unless there is a risk of flooding. If there is damage to your home
and you are instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and
electricity before leaving.
- Leave a note telling others when you left and where you are
going.
- Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection
such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and a hat.
- Check with neighbors who may need a ride.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts;
they may be blocked.
- Be alert for road hazards such as washed-out roads or bridges
and downed power lines. Do not drive into flooded areas.