Summary
Do you take the same routes to the same places every day? We tend to think of evacuations happening during disasters in other states, but the truth is they are just as possible in Oklahoma. Prepare for evacuations now, and stress less later. You'll be glad you did.
This 9-post toolkit was released as part of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management's yearlong 12 Ways to Prepare social media campaign in 2024. This campaign aimed to meet residents where they were at with informational action items, encouraging them to be #ReadyOK while equipping them to that end. September's focus was Know Evacuation Routes, and the campaign touched on ways residents can prepare for a disaster evacuation such as packing a go-kit, having a map, and predetermining safe evacuation routes and spots in every direction.
1. Review
CHECK ✅ In August, we tackled DIY projects to #MakeHomeSafer. Now, we’re looking to #KnowEvacuationRoutes! 🚗💨
Do you drive the same ways to get to the same places every day? If your map app or GPS failed, would you know how to get where you needed to go? Where are you going to go in an evacuation? 🤷🏻♀️
We’ll address these questions and more this month. You can also visit the link below for tips NOW⬇️
https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/know-evacuation-routes.html
#YouCan #ResolveToBeReady #12WaysToPrepare #KnowEvacuationRoutes #ReadyOK #OklahomaWay
2. Intro
We often think evacuations only happen to OTHER people in OTHER states, but evacuations can happen ANYWHERE, and most certainly to YOU! Have a plan in place before the need arises, and save yourself and your family from distress 💪🙌
We’ll be learning how to do just that this month, so follow along or find tips online at https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/know-evacuation-routes.html
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
3. Wander
Not all who wander are lost.. but you might be if you never wander!
As creatures of habit, we often take the same routes home or to our frequented places. Take some time to meander on a different path to familiarize yourself with your area and alternate routes of travel for evacuation. You may not have your📱to rely on.
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
4. Alternate Means
Let’s say your car is inoperable 🤔 How are you going to get you and your family to a safe place in the event of an #EVACUATION? What are some other means of transportation out of your local area?
Think it through, and prepare for any situation 👍 If you don’t have access to a vehicle, make other arrangements ahead of time with a neighbor or family or friends nearby and become familiar with alternative means of transportation in your area—trains, buses, etc.
In worst-case scenarios, use what you have 🛴🛵🏍️🛶🚜🏂⛷️🚲🛹🛼 including 👟
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
5. Get a Map
If there’s a place you got to go (and GPS/cellular location systems are not functioning), I’m the one you need to know! 🗺️🎶
You may know your local area by ❤️, but what if you have to evacuate outside it? Have a physical map in every car for emergencies, and practice using it every once in a while!
Oklahoma state maps are available for free at any Tourism Welcome Center statewide, and can also be requested by mail at https://oklahoma.gov/odot/business-center/plans-library/map-request.html.
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
6. Check Community Plans
Learn what disasters are likely in your community and find out what evacuation plans already exist for those scenarios.
Your local emergency manager can answer your preparedness questions specific to your area and fill you in on best practices 👍
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
7. Where Will You Go?
Before you’ve got to go, identify several places you could go in an emergency 🤔💡 such as:
-a friend or family member’s home in another town
-motels, hotels
-a place that will accept pets, if needed
Choose destinations in different directions so that you have options during an emergency, but always follow the instructions of local officials.
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
8. Have What You Need
In the event of an evacuation, you won’t have time to pack ⏰ Assemble supplies now ✔️
Prepare a “go-bag” you can carry when you evacuate on foot or public transportation
Prepare supplies for traveling longer distances if you have a car
Need a packing list? Here’s a good place to start: https://oklahoma.gov/oem/readyok/be-prepared/twelveways/assemble-or-update-supplies.html
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
9. If You Have a Car
Have car, will evacuate ~ Things to keep in mind if you have a car before an #evacuation:
⛽️ Keep your gas tank full if an evacuation seems likely.
🌓 Keep your gas tank half-full at all times in case of an unexpected need to evacuate. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies or unable to pump gas during power outages.
🚙 Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
📦 Make sure you have a portable emergency kit in the car.
#YouCan #KnowEvacuationRoutes #12WaysToPrepare #ReadyOK
