American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom

Evacuation Tips from the American Red Cross
Preparation ahead of time will help you react quickly and stay safe

The American Red Cross in North Dakota and Minnesota urges residents to prepare now to evacuate immediately should authorities indicate that it is time to do so in your neighborhood. Be proactive and prepare the following items to take with you should the time come:

· any medicines or other medical supplies needed by members of the family

· feeding formulas for infants or special food for those with specific dietary requirements

· a pillow, blanket or other comfort items for each member of the family

· a change of clothing

· a few non-perishable snacks and water, a manual can-opener

· flashlights, a battery-powered radio, and extra batteries for both

· books and simple toys for your children.

· important documents

· emergency arrangements for your pets

Listen to area radio and television stations or a NOAA Weather Radio for evacuation announcements that apply to your area. If you are told to evacuate, be ready to act immediately. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. Make every attempt to evacuate during daylight hours. Remember: listen to local authorities and do what they ask you to do.

If you are asked to evacuate, and can make one call before you leave home, call some one you love and tell them you are safe. Then, ask them to register you on Safe and Well.

Register on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website.  The Safe and Well Website allows those directly affected by a disaster to let their loved ones know of their well-being.

For those that do not have internet access, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.

Concerned family members who know the person’s phone number (home, cell or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.