Emergency Evacuation

In some types of emergencies you may be asked to evacuate your home by the emergency services. It is very important that you follow their advice. You would normally be taken to a reception centre where you can be looked after until its safe for you to return to your home.

Depending on the incident you may decide to self-evacuate to a friends or relatives house. Make sure that you tell any emergency services personnel present of your intentions so that you can be accounted for.

If you have any elderly or disabled neighbours check that they are aware of the situation and inform the emergency services.

Be prepared

• Decide in advance as part of your Emergency Plan places where you could evacuate to, how you would get there and where you would meet up with other family members.
• You may be asked to go to a specific Reception Centre or decide to go to a friends or relatives home. Make sure all members of your family / group know the location of where you are going in case you are separated.
• Check with any neighbours that may need assistance.

Items to take with you

If it is safe and there is time, try to remember to take the following items with you if you have to evacuate your home:

• Emergency kit
• Emergency contact numbers
• Medication and prescription glasses
• Documentation (Insurance details etc)
• Spare clothing and blankets
• Cash/Credit Cards
• Keys (House/Car)
• Special foods
• Pets with leads / carriers / baskets

Before you leave switch off heating, gas, electric, and water supplies and lock all doors and windows.

Schools

If an incident occurs whilst your children are at school, although naturally you will want to collect them as soon as possible, please tune in to your local radio station, visit the Councils website and social media sites for advice and details on any arrangements for collecting children.