Evacuation Check List for Military Families

In light of the military families who have had to evacuate Cairo and are now evacuating Japan, we should all be at least minimally prepared and should think through the steps we will need to take if we were ever evacuated.

Regardless of where you are stationed (CONUS or OCONUS) the possibility of evacuation from either natural  or man-made disasters is there. I’m not advocating living in fear, but just being plain prepared.

I found the following list on the Armed Forces Crossroads website. It was the most comprehensive list and ideas I came across.

EXCERPT:
SOURCE LINK

Evacuation Checklist

1. Find out which disasters are likely to occur in your area.
2. Ask how you would be warned of an emergency:
   On duty:
   Off duty:
3. Learn your community’s evacuation routes and your installation’s evacuation procedures.
4. Find where your local shelters are located.
5. Ask about assistance for elderly family members or family members with special needs.

PREPARE A DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT

1. Assemble supplies you might need in an evacuation.
2. Disaster Kit Prepared:
   Location of Kit: 
   • Water. One gallon per person per day. Store in sealed unbreakable containers and replace every six months. Store at least a three day supply of water.
   • Food. Store non-perishable foods that need little preparation or cooking. Include foods for family members with special diets. Store at least a three day supply of food.
   • First Aid Kit. Assemble a basic first aid kit with the following items:
     • Band-Aids in assorted sizes
     • Sterile gauze pads and rolls
     • Scissors, tweezers, and a needle
     • Antiseptic and cleansing agent
     • Thermometer and tongue blades
     • Sunscreen
     • Safety pins
     • Non-prescription Drugs, aspirin, laxative, antacid, anti-diarrhea
   • Tools and Supplies:
     • Eating utensils
     • Battery powered radio and extra batteries
     • Flashlight and extra batteries
     • Can opener, utility knife
     • Personal hygiene items
     • Toilet paper and towelettes
   • Clothing:
     • Sturdy shoes
     • Rain gear
     • One complete change of clothing per person
   • Special Items:
     • Cash or traveler’s checks and change
     • Items for infants, diapers, formula, medication, and bottles
     • Prescription drugs
     • Eyeglasses, contact lens supplies
     • Pet care items: food, shot records, a carrying case
   • Important Family Documents:
     (In a fire and water proof container) 
     • Will, insurance policies, contracts, deeds stocks and bonds
     • Passports, social security cards, military ID cards, immunization record
     • Bank account numbers
     • Credit card numbers
     • Inventory of valuable household goods
     • Important telephone numbers
     • Family Records (birth, marriage, death certificates)
3. Depending on the amount of time you have and policies for the evacuation you may consider bringing:
   • Irreplaceable items, photos, heirlooms, etc.
   • Entertaining games and books
   • Blankets or sleeping bags

CREATE AN EMERGENCY PLAN
Meet with household members and discuss each disaster that could occur and how to respond:

1. Discuss evacuation warnings and procedures.
2. Make sure each family member knows where the disaster supplies kit is.
3. Learn how to turn off gas, electricity, and water in your home.
4. Know where to find emergency phone numbers and non-local contact phone numbers.
5. If children are alone, find a neighbor or friend they should go to.

STORE YOUR DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT

1. Store your kit in a convenient place known by all family members.
2. Store your kit in easy to carry container such as a duffel bag, backpack, or covered trash container.
3. Keep items that can get wet in airtight plastic bags.
4. Change your water and food supplies every six months.

KNOW HOW AND WHERE TO SHUT OFF UTILITIES
Write the location of each and instructions for shutting off:

1. Main water valve
2. Circuit Breaker
3. Gas Valve

CHOOSE PLACES TO MEET AND A NON-LOCAL CONTACT

Write down places to meet and a non-local contact in case your family is separated.

1. Within home meeting Place:
2. Outside home meeting Place:
3. Neighbor/friend if children are alone:

Non-local relative or friend for check-in
Name:
City:
Phone # Day
Phone # Evening:

IF YOU NEED TO EVACUATE

1. Listen to your radio for location and instructions to emergency shelters.
2. Follow instructions of local Disaster Preparedness officials/installation commander.
3. If you can go home before evacuating:
   • Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes
   • Take your disaster supplies kit
   • Lock your home
   • Use travel routes specified by local officials/installation commander
4. If you are sure you have time:
   • Shut off your utilities
   • Let others know when you left and where you are going
   • Make arrangements for pets
5. If you have problems at any time during an evacuation, call your Airman & Family Readiness Center or the Airman & Family Readiness Center at any military installations.

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