Evacuation

Evacuation is generally only considered as a last resort, but is more common than many people think. Evacuation may last a relative short period of time or be of a longer duration; during this time you will have no access to your home or workplace

If told to evacuate, follow instructions from the emergency services.

What can you do now?

• find out the emergency procedures for your workplace and for your children at school.
• arrange how your family will stay in contact in the event of an emergency.
• plan a place to meet in the event of an incident.
• ask a friend outside the area to be a checkpoint that all members can contact to say they are safe.
• know how to tune into your local radio station.
• put together an emergency grab bag.

If told to evacuate:

• Do not enter restricted areas or closed roads.
• Check neighbours to ensure they know what is happening, or to see if they need help.
• Gather family members and prepare to leave your home.
• Get pets ready for evacuation - Care of animals and pets in an emergency.
• Take any prescribed medicines with you.
• Know how to turn off electricity, gas and water supplies.
• Close and lock doors and windows.
• Don't return home unless told you can.
• Ensure you have an emergency grab bag:

 Preparing your Emergency Grab Bag

Your emergency grab bag should contain information and items that may help during an emergency.  It should be small enough for anyone to carry and be kept in a safe place where everyone in your house can find it.

• a wind up or battery powered radio and torch
• spare batteries
• first aid kit
• details of prescription medication
• spare glasses or contact lenses
• a list of useful telephone numbers (do not rely on your mobile phone address book)
• mobile phone charger
• toiletries
• spare keys for your house and car
• important documents, including copies of personal identification and insurance details
• notebook and pencil
• something to occupy the children
• something to drink (bottled water)
• anything else? (sweets or chocolate always help!)