What You Should Know About Storm Evacuation  

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Don't wait until a storm hits, check out potential evacuation routes and fuel stops beforehand.

With hurricane season in full swing on the Florida Coast, it pays to think about steps you would take if you need to evacuate. Here are some things to consider.

How do I know when to evacuate?

Don’t wait! It is NOT safe to wait. Plan to leave early. Mandatory evacuation orders will come

from your local officials. Evacuations will be based on zip codes. Please be prepared to leave

immediately.

Should I evacuate?

Do not wait until a mandatory evacuation is issued. Monitor conditions and leave whenever

you can. Hurricanes and disasters can be extremely unpredictable and can become much

more dangerous in a matter of hours.

Where should I go?

You may evacuate to any city you choose. If you do not have hotel reservations or family you can stay with, you may evacuate to the public shelters.

What route should I take?

There are no mandatory routes you must take when evacuating from your city. In fact, there are several different routes you may take. When weather is good, take your family on an outing to check routes and become familiar with roadways and fuel locations.

When evacuating you should:

• Coordinate your departure with the people who will be traveling with you.
• Notify an out-of-area person of your evacuation plans.
• Plan for your pets.
• Pack your disaster supply kit into your vehicle.
• Secure your home.
• Double check your evacuation route and leave.

Should I carry food and drinks in my car?

Yes! Stopping for food or drinks during a large-scale evacuation may significantly delay you in getting to your destination. Some restaurants and stores along hurricane routes may be closed and those that are open are likely to be very crowded. Additionally, once you leave the evacuation route to purchase food or drinks, it may be difficult to re-enter the flow of traffic.

What can I do to help others?

Check on friends and neighbors and assist them if you can make sure they can evacuate. If you cannot, help them contact the local emergency management office.

If you find that you have storm damage when you return, call SERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast at 904.729.2401.