EVACUATION CHECKLIST: How to prepare, what to bring

The American Red Cross is reminding anyone who might have to evacuate from their home to bring essential items for each member of the family.

Such items might include:

Prescriptions and emergency medications
Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
Identification to show residence is in affected area
Important personal documents
Extra clothing
Pillows, blankets, and other comfort items
Hygiene supplies
Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula, and toys
Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled

The shelters will remain open as long as necessary. The Red Cross is working closely with local emergency management officials to coordinate relief services.

Ready.gov

reminds families and households to establish a communication plan and offers

a guide

in how to plot an effective course of action.

Other things to keep in mind as you prepare for a possible evacuation:

Keep you vehicle's gas tank full, and make sure you have an emergency kit in it. Consider also downloading a fuel app to check for fuel station outages along your route.
Have a battery-operate radio with you.
Plan how you will care for your pets during an evacuation
Bring supplies such as water and non-perishable food for the car ride.
Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts.
Let friends and family know before you leave and when you arrive, both when you evacuate and when you return home.
Avoid downed power or utility lines, and immediately report them to the appropriate utility company.

More information

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for shelter information and to get instant access to information and resources on what to do during a flood. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store, or visit redcross.org/apps.

Get more tips on preparedness, including particulars for seniors and military members to consider as well as recommended financial prepations, at ready.gov.