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Evacuation
Evacuation should be addressed as part of everyone's planning
efforts. City officials will tell you when to evacuate through the media and
direct warnings. Evacuation is used as a last resort when a serious threat to
public safety exists. If you must evacuate, your first plan whould always be
to stay with friends or family. In a widespread evacuation affecting
a large number of people, the City may open disaster shelter for those who
cannot stay with friends or family outside the evacuation zone.
In a planned evacuation, such as for a coastal storm, the City will advise
residents of which areas are impacted and provide guidance on how the evacuation
will proceed. In the case of coastal storms, designated routes have been
identified throughout the city to effectively get people from low-lying hazard
areas safely to higher ground. To find out whether you live or work in a
hurricane evacuation zone and identify evacuation routes, use the Emergency Management Online Locator System (EMOLS),
OEM's web-based evacuation mapping tool.
In an unplanned evacuation, such as for a hazardous material
spill, officials will advise affected residents to leave the immediate area
until the danger can be removed. Always have your Ready Bag prepared and easily
accessible in case of any evacuation. You may not have time to assemble your
belongings, and you may not be allowed back until the danger has
passed.
EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY WHEN YOU:
- Are directed to do so by an emergency official.
- Are in immediate danger.
BE PREPARED TO EVACUATE:
- Determine whether you live in a hurricane evacuation zone by accessing EMOLS or call 311 (TTY: 212-504-4115).
- Know evacuation plans for all the places you and your household members
spend time. Often buildings have floor marshals who are responsible for
evacuation plans.
- Make alternate transportation plans; the means of transportation you usually
use may not be available.
- Practice plans through regular drills. People who practice escape drills can
evacuation with greater ease than those who are unfamiliar with the procedures.
WHEN YOU EVACUATE:
- If there is time, secure your home: close and lock windows and doors, and
unplug appliances before you leave. Authorities will instruct you if it is
necessary to turn off utilities.
- Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable, protective clothing such as long pants
and long-sleeved shirts.
- Bring your Go Bag with you.
- Do NOT use an elevator during a fire or other emergency unless directed to
do so by emergency personnel. If power goes out or is shut off, you may become
trapped.
- Remember, evacuation routes change based on the emergency so stay tuned to
the local news, access NYC.gov or call 311 for the latest information.
- Go to the nearest safe place or shelter as soon as
instructed.
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