Expecting the Unexpected

WHY WOULD THERE BE AN EVACUATION?

Evacuations may be ordered under dangerous circumstances where lives are in danger due to a threat. For example, evacuations may be ordered as a result of a fire, gas leak, hazardous materials accident, flood or tropical weather. If at any time circumstances exist where you or your family feel threatened or endangered, you may choose to leave your home, school or workplace to avoid those situations. There are two types of evacuations affiliated with hurricanes: mandatory and voluntary. Mandatory evacuations are orders issued by the Governor of Alabama.

Voluntary evacuations orders may be issued in advance of hurricane impacts prior to the mandatory evacuation. Anytime there is an evacuation order, please follow the guidance of the local officials and leave the area of danger!

HOW WILL I FIND OUT ABOUT THE EVACUATION?

Emergency notifications may be disseminated in a number of ways. If the situation occurs suddenly, rapid notification using reverse 911, emergency alert system (EAS), wireless emergency alerts (WEA) and all public media avenues may be used. Public safety officials have access to systems that will assist in emergency messaging. You may also subscribe to the Reverse 911 Service offered through the Emergency 911 Office. This service allows you to link your cell phone number with the physical address of your residence. In emergency situations, you may receive important messages regarding evacuation notices. Visit https://baldwin911.org/ to enroll in the program.

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE WITH ME?

Evacuation orders may be issued with little or NO notice. This is one reason why you should keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle. Gas stations may close or be unable to pump gas during power outages or other emergencies. Traffic congestion and delays may be unavoidable during travel so having emergency food and water in your vehicle emergency kit will be extremely beneficial.

Voluntary evacuation orders may be issued in advance of hurricane impacts prior to the mandatory evacuation. Any time there is an evacuation order, please follow the guidance of the local officials and leave the area of danger!

An emergency kit for your vehicle will be critical for assisting others that you may encounter during an emergency. Here are suggested items you may want to include in your vehicle emergency kit: - Food and water - Blanket, clothes and extra shoes - Tool kit - Jumper cables - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher - Flashlight - Batteries - Portable Battery Powered radio - Important Documents - Insurance, identification, contact information, maps

WHERE DO I GO AND HOW DO I GET THERE?

Here is where planning is important. While making your family plans for emergencies, pre-determine options for safe evacuation locations. Once you have identified your safe locations, you can identify multiple routes in which to reach your destination. Be sure to share your evacuation plans with friends and family so that they are aware of your safety.

Should you have transportation challenges, Baldwin County Regional Area Transit System (BRATS) can assist you with your transportation needs. You may contact BRATS in advance of an emergency and plan for your transport to a local shelter.