We do not think about evacuating very often. Many times we think of it when we hear of someone else needing evacuate because of an approaching storm. But, what happens when it is you that needs to evacuate?
Thankfully, the National Weather Service has made some very easy checklists to help you prepare to evacuate.
The main concept to remember during an evacuation is that you need to actually leave when you are told to do so. The officials who have declared the evacuation are doing it to keep you safe.
It is important that you find a place to stay outside of the evacuation area so that you do not find yourself in more trouble. You also need to stay close enough to be able to go back home as soon as the evacuation zone is reopened. This can help you work out your insurance plans while the staff are at full force to assist. It also is important to communicate to someone who is not in the storm path which will help you get help if needed.
Never forget to think about your pets. Some hotels do not allow pets and most shelters do not allow them either. Thinking through your pet plan ahead of time is an important element to easing your mind during a stressful evacuation.
The more you plan before a hurricane will help your evacuation run smoothly.
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Checklist from The National Weather service. Find more checklist by going to the Hurricane Safety page at: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/hurricane/plan.shtml