Forming a Hurricane Evacuation Plan
The following is adapted from the Texas Homeowner’s Handbook to Prepare for Coastal Natural Hazards published by the Texas General Land Office and the Texas Sea Grant College Program in March 2013.
An evacuation plan should be created and reviewed with all participants every year. When forming an evacuation plan, here are some things to consider:
Listen to Local Radio and Television
Tuning in to local radio and television stations is important. Listen to your local radio and television stations carefully as there may be additional or modified directions based on the best available information at that time.
Know Your Evacuation Route
The Texas Department of Transportation has hurricane information, evacuation maps, and up-to-date road conditions available on their website.
Consider All Household Members
Evacuation plans should consider all members of a household, especially those with special health needs. Practice evacuation procedures annually. Parents should learn their child’s school’s evacuation plans and confirm where students will be held and for how long in the event of a disaster. Parents should not drive to school to pick up their children unless directed to do so by school officials.
If needed, develop a plan to help the disabled or those with limited mobility. If people with special health needs are with a care-provider, confirm that the care-provider has an evacuation plan.
Remember Your Pets
Develop a plan for your pets. Be advised that not all shelters take pets. Listen to local radio or check with the American Red Cross to determine if there are any pet-friendly shelter locations nearby. Plan ahead and visit the Humane Society of the United States for information on creating evacuation kits for your pet. Microchip pets at your veterinarian’s office or local Humane Society well in advance of a storm event to aid in the quick identification and return of your pet in case you are separated during an emergency.
Know How to Communicate
Consider how family members and friends will communicate if they become separated. Create a list of telephone numbers and email addresses of everyone in the family and phone numbers of a few contacts outside of the family.
Be Prepared
Vehicles should be kept in good operating condition and gas tanks should be full. Ensure all emergency kits are packed.
Know Your Shelter
Become familiar with the closest shelter or shelters in case of evacuation. Check for updates to the list of shelters on the American Red Cross website. Plan and prepare to be at your evacuation point for at least several hours.
