Seeking Shelter - Do You Know Where To Go In Case Of An Evacuation?

Many towns will issue an evacuation when there is an impending disaster such as a hurricane. The evacuations are typically called by the mayor of the city. If you are expecting a disaster in your area, be sure to pay close attention to any warnings from officials. They will be linked directly to the weather experts and will give you valuable information about the evacuation. Listen to the news on your television or radio for information. When an evacuation is announced, be sure to follow it. Many times people don't flee because they have no idea where to go. Use these tips to help you know what to do if an evacuation is announced for your community.

When to Go

If you think an evacuation is impending, you should plan to flee. The sooner you flee the better experience you will have. When you wait until the last minute, you will always experience high volumes of traffic as well as long lines at shelters and hotels. By choosing to flee before a mandatory evacuation is announced, you will be ahead of the game. If you think an evacuation will be announced, chances are it will. So go ahead and leave long before everyone else begins to do the same.

Where to Go

Many people choose to stay behind and face horrible conditions because they have no where to go. Many people will flee to the homes of friends or family members. However, if you don't have friends and family outside the community, you may not think there is a place for you and your family. If an evacuation is announced, you should not stay. Even if you think there is no place to go, you should still leave. Pack your things in your car and start driving. There are shelters in each state that are specifically for evacuees. Organizations such as the Red Cross or The Salvation Army will be able to help locate a place for you.

Try a church you see along your route. Many times, churches will open their doors to evacuees and offer boarding and food. Don't be afraid to reach out to others in the state to help you. They will be more likely to help you than you might think. If you can afford it, check into a hotel. Many hotels will give discounts to those fleeing from disaster. This will help you be able to stay longer than you might have been able to otherwise.

The main thing to consider when fleeing is that you should go far enough away from the area to be out of harm's way. This may mean that you have to drive for hours before reaching a safe spot. Do what you must however, because if you are evacuating, you want to know you will be safe.

How to Go

Most people use personal vehicles to flee the community when an evacuation is issued. Sometimes you can catch a bus or a plane however to get out of the area. If you don't have a personal vehicle, try hitching a ride with neighbor, relative, or friend. If you need to get to the bus station, hail a cab to do so. Whatever you need to do to get out of town, just do it! Waiting around for the next flight or for a possible bus may be the best answer. Just be sure to get out of the area in plenty of time. If you don't have a personal vehicle, it will be even more important that you flee as soon as possible or make arrangements to do so.

Remember, there are always places that you can stay when you need to evacuate your community. Just because you don't have family or friends outside the community does not mean you should stay when an evacuation is issued. There are people who are prepared to help you once you are out of the area. Getting out is the most important part. After you get out you can figure out where to go from there. Consider calling your state government's offices to find a starting point once you have evacuated. They will be able to point you in the right direction.