The wildfire risk west of the Cascades has grown due to climate change, resulting in wildfires becoming an annual threat in Western Washington. The "Ready, Set, Go Now!" evacuation initiative is to help our communities prepare for the actions that should be taken at each level when alerted by authorities.
LEVEL 1 "Be Ready" Phase
Be aware of the danger in your area and start preparing for possible evacuation.
Monitor local media and check on neighbors. If you do not already have an evacuation plan or a Go! kit, assemble these now. Conditions can change suddenly, and you may not receive a Level 2 "Be Set" warning before you are ordered to Level 3 "Go!" Prepare both the inside and outside of your home for fire. Leave if you feel unsafe -- do not wait for an official evacuation order.
LEVEL 2 "Be Set" Phase
Short-notice evacuation likely in your area.
Be prepared for sudden evacuation. People who need help or more time to evacuate - people with disabilities, people with small children, people with medical conditions and people with large animals - should evacuate now. Ensure your evacuation plan checklist is complete and your Go! kit is in your vehicle. Stay informed and be aware of alerts from local law enforcement and fire departments. Always remember to leave if you feel unsafe, do not wait for an official evacuation order.
LEVEL 3 "Go Now" Phase
Evacuate immediately from your area.
Go now! Danger in your area is current or imminent. Follow directions from law enforcement or fire departments and do not return home until officials have determined it is safe. Notification that it is safe to return home will be given as soon as possible.
Jody Ferguson, Director of Pierce County Department of Emergency Management, said "Last year, Pierce County experienced several wildfires and unfortunately, one resulted in the deaths of two people. With wildfires becoming more common near urban areas in Western Washington, the 'Ready, Set, Go!' approach to evacuation is critical for all of us to learn, understand and follow when instructed to do so.”
The Ready, Set, Go evacuation initiative is intended for wildfires and hazards of any other type that may require evacuation.
Stay informed with 24/7 emergency and community-specific messages through Pierce County’s PC ALERT by signing up today at www.piercecountywa.gov, calling 253-798-6595, texting PCALERT to 888-777 or by scanning the QR Code below.
Credit: piercecountywa.gov
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