Disaster Preparedness: 2. Evacuation Process: Ready, Set, Go

Introduction | Level 1: Be Ready |
Level 2: Be Set | Level 3: Go!

ready set golevelsThe 3 Levels of Evacuation

level1Level 1: Be Ready to Evacuate

  • A LEVEL 1 evacuation means “BE READY” for potential evacuation.
  • Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area,
    monitor emergency services websites and local media outlets for information.
  • This is the time for preparation and precautionary movement of persons
    with special needs, mobile property and (under certain circumstances) pets and livestock.
  • For wildfire, be Firewise by reducing your home's ignition potential.
  • Assemble emergency supplies and belongings in a safe place.
  • Create an Evacuation Plan with escape routes and
    make sure all those residing within the home know the plan of action.
    Emergency fire escape ladder (kept under bed) is a good idea for upstairs bedrooms.
  • Taking the correct route during an evacuation is critical for your safety.
  • redflagA Red Flag Warning suggests that Level 2 could be imminent
    -- warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are
    expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.
  • Tune into information about where to go during an evacuation, e.g.,
    Nixle Citizen Alert System: ashland.or.us/nixle
    Ashland Emergency Broadcast Station: 1700 AM
    Wildfire Information Hotline: 541-552-2490
    City of Ashland Website: ashland.or.us
    Jackson County Emergency Management: rvem.org
    full list: 1. Be Informed
  • If conditions worsen, emergency services personnel may contact you
    via an emergency notification system.
  • ALL RESIDENTS SHOULD BE AT THIS LEVEL OF READINESS AT ALL TIMES!

level2Level 2: Be Set to Evacuate

  • A LEVEL 2 evacuation means “BE SET” to evacuate. Situational Awareness.
  • This level indicates there is significant danger to your area, and residents
    should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends
    outside of the affected area, or if choosing to remain, to be ready
    to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
  • Check road closures: ODOT: tripcheck.com; plan evacuation route.
  • If you do decide to stay, pack your emergency items and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
  • Other advice from CalFire, USFS, e.g., move propane; move flammable materials; etc.
    prop open flammable fence gates;
    if turning off gas, wait until Level 3 -- since restoring gas service might take days/weeks??
  • THIS MAY BE THE ONLY NOTICE THAT YOU RECEIVE.
  • Emergency services cannot guarantee that they will be able to notify you if
    conditions rapidly deteriorate. Area media services will be asked to broadcast periodic updates.

level3Level 3: Go! — EVACUATE now

  • A LEVEL 3 evacuation means that you need to LEAVE IMMEDIATELY!
  • Danger to your area is current or imminent, and you should evacuate immediately.
  • Follow your personal evacuation plan.
  • Leave electricity on -- unless emergency responders ask you to turn off.
  • Leave lights on -- enables responders to see that no one is inside.
  • Close windows and doors -- protects your home by reducing oxygen for fire.
  • Leave a note that you've left and where you've gone
    -- first responders/neighbors can save time checking, and later inform others who inquire about you.
  • If you choose to ignore this advisement, you must understand that emergency services
    may not be available to assist you further.
  • DO NOT DELAY leaving to gather any belongings or make efforts to protect your home.
  • Be aware of hazards. Take direction from authorities.
  • Access to evacuated areas may be denied until conditions are safe for citizens to return.
  • DO NOT plan to return to check on your house or animals. If it’s not safe for them, it’s not safe for you!