EVACUATION GUIDELINES

By
Bruce Dietz
Published: October 19, 2009Tags:

 Over the last couple of months, different regions of the United States have experienced devastating weather.  The west has been ravaged by fire and the southeast has been flooded.  It has become painfully obvious that weather can quickly change life as we know it.  People in these regions had very little time to evacuate their homes.  In the haste of evacuation, many times people forget valuable items they will need.  In this article, we will review several categories of items to consider taking with you during an evacuation.

PERSONAL DOCUMENTS

Documents are critical to preserve.   They serve as proof of citizenship and ownership.  Below is a list of the most important documents to take with you during an evacuation.

  • Birth Certificates
  • Passports
  • Vehicle Titles
  • Stock Certificates
  • Marriage License
  • Property Titles
  • Wills

BUSINESS DOCUMENTS

If you work from home or own your own business, it is essential to protect your business documents.  At the very least, make sure you back up files from your desktop once a week on a jump drive and take it with you.  Another option is to employ a service that will allow you to backup your files on their remote servers.  And of course, take your laptop computer and charger with you.

MEDICATIONS

It is critical that you take all medications in their original prescription bottle.  This will ensure that you will have the information should you need to refill it while away from home.  Also, if you are flying to stay with friends or family, the medicine must be in the original prescription container.

CASH

It is imperative to have cash during an evacuation situation.   Network problems can prevent debit or credit transactions during a weather event.  By having cash, you will ensure you will be able to purchase items.

 PERSONAL ITEMS

Everyone has items that may not have significant financial value, but are invaluable to them.  So if you have family photos, jewelry, paintings of piece of furniture that is sentimental to you and can’t be replaced, you may want to consider taking it with you. 

Hopefully this list will serve as a guide for you to formulate an evacuation list so you can get out quickly, safely and with the essential items necessary to continue with daily life.

About the Author

Bruce Dietz is an accomplished real estate agent serving the Augusta real estate market and surrounding Central Savannah River Area. After serving in the military, Bruce decided to launch his own business in the real estate industry. His expertise in local, national and international relocations has resulted in rave reviews from his clients. Bruce’s expertise of the Augusta real estate market, with special focus on Columbia County GA homes, coupled with his passion for excellent customer service is your winning combination. So, whether you need to move around the corner or around the world—Remember, “Nobody beats Dietz!”