Ask an Expert — Be Ready: What to Do If You Need to Evacuate

With wildfires threatening communities across the state, evacuation orders can happen with little warning. Preparing your household now can help you evacuate quickly and safely if it becomes necessary.

• Assemble grab-and-go kits. The Ready.Gov website offers printable instructions for building a basic disaster supply kit, including:
• Water: one gallon per person per day for three days for drinking and sanitation.
• Food: at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food per person.
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket.
• Change of clothes.
• Cash (small bills).
• Battery, solar or hand-cranked radio.
• Flashlight, extra batteries.
• First-aid kit.
• Portable power bank or solar charger.
• Whistle (to signal for help).
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air).
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape for sheltering in place.
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties as well as soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.
• Personal hygiene items.
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery or solar charger.
• Prescriptions and other medications.
• Pet food, water and supplies.
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and other supplies.
• A complete change of clothing for each person, including underwear and sturdy shoes.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils.
• Paper and pencil plus books, games, puzzles and activities for children.

• Ensure that a copy of your important documents, such as birth certificates, insurance policies and financial records, is easily accessible.

• Identify emergency meeting spots and practice going there regularly.

• Make sure at least one family member knows first aid and CPR.

• Write down or memorize all family members’ contact information, including phone numbers and birthdates.

• Have a family communication plan. Review and practice the plan regularly.

• Be sure to involve children and youth in preparedness efforts. Research shows that youth who are involved experience less stress and anxiety during and after an emergency.

• Visit USU Extension’s preparedness website for additional emergency preparedness information.