MINI TIP
Content from www.PrepareDE.org/evacuation-info/
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FROM EMERGENCY OFFICIALS Always follow instructions from state emergency and local public safety officials before, during, and after emergencies. Most emergencies require Delawareans to stay put, also known as “shelter-in-place,” but other situations may call for residents to evacuate. If directed by public safety officials to shelter-in-place or evacuate, don’t delay: take immediate action and follow their instructions. Shelter-in-place • Remain inside your home or office; • Close and lock all windows and exterior doors; • Get out the household emergency supply kit; • Turn on the radio or television, and listen to the news (local officials may be calling for the evacuation of individuals in certain areas at greatest risk); • Go to an interior room without windows; • In the case of a chemical threat: - Seek an above-ground location (some chemicals are heavier than air and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed); - Turn off all fans and heating and air conditioning systems; - Close the fireplace damper; • Only seal off doors, windows, and vents if advised to do so by emergency management authorities. Listen to emergency broadcast information and carefully follow any instructions regarding sealing. Evacuation If the reason for the evacuation is a gas leak or a fire, immediately have everyone exit the home. From a safe location, call 9-1-1 and report the incident. • Listen to the radio, monitor cell phones, and watch local news and weather channels; • Heed all warnings and notification messages regarding when to leave and what routes to take; • Wear sturdy shoes and layered clothing; • Take the household emergency supply kit; • Although emergency shelters may be able to provide some basic supplies, bring a blanket, pillow, air mattress, towel, washcloth, and any “specialty” supplies (i.e. diapers, food, and infant supplies); • When evacuating with pets: - Make sure they are wearing collars and tags with your contact information on them, - Label leashes and/or have labeled carriers (owner’s and pet’s names); - Bring your pet’s food, water, and medications. - If going to a shelter, call ahead to make sure they accept pets or if heading for a friend or family member’s house, make sure they are aware you are also bringing your fur-babies. For more information, visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-toprepare-for-emergencies/pet-disaster-preparedness.html. • Call your family’s emergency contact to tell him/her where the family is going and the expected arrival time; • If directed by public safety officials, shut off water and electricity before leaving. Leave natural gas service ON unless public safety officials direct otherwise. • Lock the home. • Use travel routes specified by local authorities. Do not use shortcuts, as certain areas may be impassable or dangerous. • Stay away from downed power lines.
14 Delaware Journal of Public Health – October 2019