Prepare Now
Plot Escape Route
In any bug-out situation, you're always better off if you've rehearsed in your mind where you plan to bug out to.
- Identify emergency shelters (your local emergency management office can provide a complete list) or hotels where you could stay. Keep in mind that one reason disasters produce such horrendous traffic jams is evacuees often travel much farther than they have to. Focus on two or three possible locations say, just five, 10, and 20 miles from your home. Write down the phone numbers of each destination. Map your routes. Think of hazards, such as flooded streams, that might block your way, and plot alternate routes accordingly. Those at risk for wildfires should always have at least two means of egress from their homes.
- Think about friends or relatives you could stay with for an extended period. Check with them now to make sure they really wouldn't mind having you live with them for several days or weeks, and write down their phone numbers and map the routes to their homes, as well.
- Print out all maps, place in a folder with the phone numbers, and store with the rest of your bug-out supplies.