Plan Evacuation
Complete step-by-step checklist to plan evacuation covering identify local shelter points and keep car fuel tank full, and essential action items.
Identify local shelter points
Know location of local government shelters and routes
Keep car fuel tank full
Ensure vehicle has at least 1/4 tank of fuel at all times
Pack family emergency bags
Have go-bags, pet carriers, and key papers ready
Turn off main home utilities
Know how to close gas, water, and power switches on exit
Follow official exit directions
Depart immediately when evacuation orders are issued
Confirm family exit vehicle route
Ensure car has map routes showing multiple highway exits
Lock all home entry doors
Lock windows and doors to secure home assets during exit
Secure pet carrier tags
Attach collar tags listing phone numbers on pet carriers
Unplug household electronics
Protect appliances from power surge damage by unplugging
Set up phone mail forward
Log forwarding steps if leaving home for extended weeks
Carry physical paper road maps
Ensure paper maps cover state borders in case GPS nets crash
Turn off main water valve valve
Shut off water supply to prevent indoor burst pipe leaks
Confirm family emergency cash supply
Have small cash bills tucked in glovebox compartment
Secure digital hard drive copies
Unplug backup hard drives and carry in travel backpack
Review shelter pet policies
Know which local evacuation shelters accept animals
Review neighbor check schedules
Notify trusted neighbor you are vacating the property
Verify emergency gas tank cans
Keep certified metal gas can empty in boot for emergencies
Check vehicle tire air levels
Confirm car tires are fully inflated for heavy luggage loads