Evacuation is a tool that is used to save lives. Knowing whether or not you and your family or indeed your neighborhood or community will need to evacuate your homes during any hurricane is essential. There are several factors to consider when the choice needs to be made of "should I stay or should I go?".
- If at any point during a hurricane emergency officials indicate that you need to evacuate, DO SO WITHOUT HESITATION.
- If you live in a known storm surge flood zone- YOU SHOULD PLAN TO EVACUATE.
- If you live in a mobile home or some type of structure that is not designed to withstand hurricane conditions- YOU SHOULD PLAN TO EVACUATE.
- If you live in a high-rise building- YOU SHOULD PLAN TO EVACUATE.
- If you or someone in your family has special medical needs that cannot be interrupted due to a weather emergency- YOU SHOULD COORDINATE EFFORTS WITH YOUR DOCTOR AND EVACUATE TO A SAFE LOCATION.
If officials indicate that evacuation is necessary . . .
- Leave as soon as possible.
- Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed out bridges.
- Secure you home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water
valve.
- Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
- If time permits, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding.
- Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
- Take blankets and sleeping bags to the shelter.
- Lock up house and leave.
 
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company,
police or fire department.
- Enter the home with caution.
- Beware of snakes, insects or animals driven to higher ground by flood water.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry home.
- Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
- Do not drink the water. Eat only foods you are absolutely sure are safe.
- Do not use candles for lighting.
Be extremely careful when using Generators. Read owners manual
and adhere to all safety precautions.
Be extremely careful when using Chainsaws.
Read owners manual and adhere to all safety precautions.
Use 911 for emergencies only. Remember that fire, rescue and police crews will be
overwhelmed with the recovery effort.
Do not burn any debris until permission is granted to do so by proper authorities.
Call your Insurance Company to file a claim if your home was damaged.
Ask your Insurance Company for financial help.
Listen to local radio stations for official disaster.
Remember: INTERSECTIONS WITH MALFUNCTIONING STOPLIGHTS
MUST BE TREATED AS A FOUR-WAY STOP.
Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.
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