Planning for a Disaster
2) Evacuate (Bug Out)
The decision to evacuate will be a hard decision. Depending on the disaster, you may have to walk, so the items you carry can be limited. If able to drive, then more items and keep sakes will be an option, depending on your vehicle(s) and the available space. Very few disasters will require an evacuation; house fire, home invasion, hurricane, etc. are some examples that may force you to evacuate your home.
Your kit and items should be kept where they can be easily grabbed during your exit.
Escape route(s)- Every person should know how to get out of the home in case of an emergency. Fire or an intruder can block the normal exits, so know how to remove yourself via alternate openings like windows. If you live on an upper floor or have a second floor, have a rope, ladder or other means to offer a safe descent.
Rally Point(s)- Everyone should know to meet at a certain location outside the danger area. If the home is on fire, everyone can meet at “Neighbor Joe’s” but if an intruder enters, it may be safer to meet a block away at a public venue like a convenience store.
Routes- If you are evacuating for a hurricane, a long evacuation route may be necessary. Preplan your route; know fuel stops, food stops, lodging, etc must be planned for. Study the route you will take and if able, take a family trip over the route to see firsthand where these commodities are located. Eat at an establishment to check their quality and selection; stop at different gas stations to see if a restroom is available and satisfactory. The condition may change once a large scale evacuation of the region starts, but having some firsthand knowledge may help. Find at least 2 alternate routes out of the area in case of traffic jams or other disasters. Will you have water crossings? Bridges can be damaged by earthquakes; heavy rains can cause flooding or wash the bridge out. Each obstacle you would have if on foot must be considered and planned for, as you may have to evacuate on foot.
Destination- Have a destination already decided. Have phone numbers to the establishment and call for a reservation (if hotel) before you leave. This can save money if you know you are going and make the reservation before the rates increase over the disaster and small number of vacancies. It will also hold your room so you know you have a place to stay and can concentrate on other items and chores that need done.
Important Documents- You will see this several times. You should have all important documents,; wills, living wills, insurance policies (with agent’s contact information), land deeds, bank account information, birth certificates, marriage and/or divorce decrees, licenses (driver’s and professional), concealed carry permits if applicable, etc stored in a fire/water proof safe. Also have electronic copies of all important documents stored on an encrypted “thumb drive” and extra copies stored at family’s house(s) and/or in a safe deposit box.
Family photos- Having the pictures digitally scanned and stored on electronic media will enable you to at least reprint your memories if they are lost or destroyed.
Water- Some disasters will not require massive amounts of water to be transported but if evacuating long distance, have water stored in your vehicle for use on the trip.
Food- Snack food or foodstuffs to make sandwiches along the way may save money and allow you to keep moving during an emergency.
Fuel- Having enough fuel for your trip is tantamount to actually succeeding in your evacuation. Extra fuel should be kept and vehicles topped off as a power outage could render stations unable to supply this needed commodity. Plan your fuel stops and try to keep your destination within the range you can drive on a single fill up if possible and getting clear of the danger/affected zone.
Emergency radio- Have a means to get up to date information and news of any hazards that you may encounter on your evacuation.
Core Temperature- When planning your routes, remember to take into consideration the different weather regions you will be travelling through and to. While shorts and a tank top may meet your needs in South Florida during November, they will not keep you warm in Maine at the same time of year. Also take into account elevation differences, as the mountains or high plains remain cold longer than lower elevations along the same longitude. Study the weather patterns for your destination locale but also the regions you will travel through.
Codes- Have a pre-established code that trusted people know. If you evacuate and cannot get touch with other members of your family or group, have a code that will allow you to tell them where you went, who is with you and when you left. This is another important aspect of why everyone associated with your preparations are involved in the planning phase. *paragraph break* Distress and duress codes are also important to allow others in the family/group know there is trouble or an emergency but not tip off anyone who overhears the conversation. These communication procedures should include words that mean all is clear as well as challenge and answers to identify friends, foes or unknowns.
Emergency Contacts- A list of trusted people that other members can call or otherwise get messages to and through. These can be family members who live out of the affected region and therefore, should be able to maintain a working phone line during a local or regional disaster.
Eye Protection (EyePro)- Safety glasses and/or goggles fit this category. You want to ensure they meet ANSI ratings for safety. You should have tinted (preferably polarized) and clear lenses for day or night travels or emergencies. You should also use a retention strap to keep the glasses in place even if you get hit by debris.
Hearing Protection (ear plugs)- If you have the resources, invest in either form fitted ear plugs like those used by band members that allow you to hear up to a certain decibel or invest in the electronic hearing protection/enhancement, these amplify light sounds while shutting off or reducing loud sounds.
Gloves- Leather work gloves or good mechanics gloves are essential for protecting your hands from broken glass, sharp metal scraps, building rubble, etc.
Footwear- Sandals or high heels are NOT proper footwear for an emergency. Wear shoes or have them available if you must wear a different shoe for work, that are comfortable to walk in, have good tread, fit the weather seasons, protect your foot from rubble and other hazards and offer support. The footwear should be well broken in BEFORE you need them, as an emergency is NOT the time to deal with blisters. Your footwear should also be fitted to your arch type. Remember, proper socks for the footwear and seasons as well. If your feet hurt, you will be slower, morale drops and you will actually start to lose your will to survive.
Dust mask- Flying debris and dirt can cause massive dust clouds that we do NOT want to breathe. Older homes may have asbestos laden plaster, so protecting your lungs is a must. If nothing else, wrap a bandana, shemagh, or other rag around your face to cover your nose and mouth.
Chemical and biological protection- Rubber gloves, rubber boots and coveralls that can be worn over your normal clothes will help mitigate the risks encountered. The single use coveralls used by cleaning professionals are light weight and affordable.
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