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Since it is impossible to plan on when an evacuation action may occur, or how much time you will have to evacuate, it is a good idea to create a kit of essentials you will need in the case of an emergency evacuation. Everyone's needs and situation will be different, so the contents of a kit will vary from household to household. In general, it is a good idea to pack items that you may need for several days (at a minimum) after an evacuation.
This kit will something that you can pre pack in a vehicle, or leave near the front door so that you can grab it on your way out of the house. Some items to consider putting in your kit are:
- Prescription medications
- First aid kit
- Credit / debit card
- Cash for emergencies
- Bank account numbers, important documents (contracts, passports, etc)
- Contact information of some friends and family
- Change of clothes
- Pet equipment (leash, bowls, food, medications, etc)
The above are only suggestions. Your pre packed kit might contain more or less than this. Some of the list below might duplicate the suggestions above.
When an evacuation action happens, the environment will most likely be somewhat busy and hectic. There may be heavy smoke in the air. There will likely be more traffic on the road than usual, which includes residents evacuating the danger area and emergency crews entering the area. The number one thing you can do to help is DON'T PANIC. You will typically have enough time to drive safely to the nearest shelter. Drive safe, and be aware of others around you. There is no need to create additional emergencies for crews.
When an evacuation occurs, you may be contacted by:
- Law enforcement officials
- Yavapai County Jeep Posse
- or Fire crews
They will give you directions to evacuate. Please follow those directions as they will be the safest route out of the danger area.
When you leave your residence, take your pets with you. Please tie a white towel or sheet near the front door so that emergency crews know you have evacuated.
Immediate Evacuation: (Evacuation in RVs is encouraged)
 Take items pre-packed for evacuation.
Otherwise, take the 3 P's: Photos, pills and pets
Short Notice Evacuation:
Items pre-packed for evacuation, otherwise:
Important papers/photos
Medications
Prescription glasses/dentures
Personal hygiene items/sanitary needs
Additional clothing
Sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, etc.
Baby food, bottles, diapers, change of clothes
Checkbook, credit cards/cash
Drivers license
Pets, bowls, leash or carrier, recent photo
Extended Notice Evacuation:
Items pre-packed for evacuation, otherwise, all items listed above and:
Clothing and personals for the estimated length of the evacuation
Special dietary items
Flashlight, extra batteries
Desired food items (non-perishable)
Reading material
First Aid Kit
Reading material
Toys/recreation items
Immediate Evacuation:
Turn off gas and electric, or
Unplug or turn off all appliances (except refrigerator and freezer)
Lock doors and windows
Tie a white towel or large white cloth to front door knob. (This advises rescuers and security of your evacuation)
Short Notice Evacuation:
All of the above actions and:
Unplug all equipment and appliances except refrigerator and freezer
Close drapes and blinds
Secure outdoor possessions (toys, boats, lawn furniture, tools, etc.)
Secure/hide other valuables
Extended Notice Evacuation:
All of the above actions and:
Attach garden hoses and nozzles to all outside faucets
Remove garbage from inside of home
Arrange for evacuation of campers/trailers/secondary vehicles (2nd car, etc.)
Insure that all family members are aware of a pre-arranged meeting place
Tie a white towel or large white cloth to front door knob. (This advises rescuers and security of your evacuation)
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