EVACUATION PROCEDURES FOR NAVAJO COUNTY

A Citizens Guide
*Emergency evacuation of a threatened area is primarily the responsibility of law enforcement agencies*
EVACUATION AND WARNING ALERT:	Warnings and alerts will take place by several methods, depending on the time availability.
	1. Local Radio and Television - by government officials, emergency services directly, or through the "Emergency Alert System" EAS.
	2. National Weather Service announces all emergency weather warnings and alerts.
	3. Law enforcement or other emergency vehicles will announce by sounding sirens and giving information over public address loud speakers, as well as door-to-door contacts.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO"	Follow closely the evacuation instruction given in the evacuation alert and by emergency responders.
	Close heavy drapes and blinds.
	Turn on exterior lights.
	Lock doors and windows.
	Most importunately remain calm.
	You may be instructed to tie a white towel or large white cloth to the front door know to advise rescuers that your residence has been evacuated.
NO ONE WILL BE ALLOWED TO RE-ENTER THE EVACUATION AREA UNTIL IT IS SAFE TO DO SO.

WHAT TO TAKE?	Important papers and valuables Medications Prescription glasses and dentures Personal toilet articles and sanitary needs Sleeping bag or blankets Special dietary needs Baby food, diapers,etc. Checkbook, credit cards, cash Driver's license/ID cards
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO TAKE IF TIME PERMITS:	Flashlight and extra batteries Portable radio and extra batteries change of clothing for each person Food - non-perishable, ready to eat Water- one gallon per person Reading Material / Recreational items First Aid Kit
WHERE DO I GO?	It is vital that all evacuees take time to register at a designated registration / reception center, so that information concerning your whereabouts is available for local officials and relatives. The reception center location will be identified at the time of evacuation.
	FOOD AND SHELTER:
	At the time of registration evacuees will decide where they will go. You may stay with family or friends, a hotel / motel, or in a Red Cross shelter. Dining facilities will be identified at the appropriate time. Meals will be provided for those who cannot purchase meals on their own.
	The safest evacuation routes will be identified by the appropriate agencies and will be made public during the evacuation warning and alerts.
	Evacuation routes cannot be pre-established. The location of the hazard, the behavior of the problem, and conditions such as wind determine safe travel routes.
	Pay close attention to the evacuation route signs and / or personnel assigned to direct traffic. Stay on designated evacuation routes.
TRANSPORTATION:	Residents will be expected to use personal vehicles. Pre-planning should be made with family and neighbors to transport individuals with special needs, children or those without a means of transportation. Persons with special needs, such as confined due to medical conditions that prevent normal transportation must make prior arrangements with family, friends or with your local emergency services. When school is in session transportation of children will be conducted by local school districts
PLAN FOR SEPARATED FAMILY MEMBERS:	Every family should establish plans for times when families may be separated. Include the following
	Establish a relative or friend as an emergency contact where all family members can call to exchange information or gather.
	Determine who will transport family members unable to drive, or if no vehicle is available.
	Meet school children at designated registration / reception center.
WHAT ABOUT THE SECURITY OF MY HOME?	Law enforcement personnel will make every effort to provide security for evacuated area. The nature of the emergency and the safety of personnel will determine where the perimeters will be established.
WHAT ABOUT MY PET ANIMALS?	Planning for care of pets and animals should be included with the family evacuation plans. An animal's best protection is to be with the owner; however, this will not always be possible
	Locate a safe place for your pets before disaster strikes.
	Ask friends or family to provide pet care.
	Check availability of boarding kennels to shelter pets during emergencies.
	Sheltering accommodations of pets may be available at the registration / reception centers and shelters if no other pet care is available. Pets are not allowed inside shelter buildings.
Acknowledgments:	Navajo County board of Supervisors - District IV & V American Red Cross Northeastern Arizona Service Unit. U.S. Forest Service. Thanks to the many Emergency Response Agencies and Community Agencies that contributed to the printing and distribution of the public service announcement.