ARE YOU PREPARED?

 With the ongoing threat of wildfires and flooding

 throughout Yavapai County, 

everyone should be prepared for an evacuation. 

There may be little to no time to evacuate, 

you may not be at home when the evacuation order is issued, and you may not be able to return.  

 We suggest the following to prepare 

for any emergency or evacuation:  

• Register for the local emergency notification system.  
• Create a family communication plan. Have a designated meeting location for all family members should your family not be able to evacuate together.  Have a designated contact out of town to check in with should you become separated. 
• Create a Buddy System. Designate someone within your neighborhood to be your "Buddy" who will retrieve your emergency kits and evacuate your animals if you are not home.  Your buddy should be familiar with your evacuation plans, the location of your emergency kits, and familiar with your animals, knowing their hiding places.  Your animals should be comfortable with your buddy, especially during an emergency.  
• Assemble emergency kits for all members of the family, including animals.  Start with the 5 P's.: People / Pet supplies (water, food, snacks, and any special dietary items and meals), Prescriptions (any necessary health items including an extra pair of prescription eyeglasses), Papers, Personal needs (clothing, shoes, and hygiene products), and Priceless items. Ensure your emergency kits are easily accessible at all times. 

• Be SET by being prepared to relocate prior to an evacuation order. The SET notification may be the only notice you receive if conditions deteriorate rapidly.
• Ensure your vehicle has plenty of gas and is parked in a position for quick and easy departure. Keep the windows rolled up.
• Ensure garden hoses are attached at all exterior faucets with a nozzle set on spray.
• When you get the GO! notification, do not delay in evacuating. By delaying or choosing not to evacuate, you may be delaying firefighting and other agency efforts. Emergency services may not be able to assist you further.
• When evacuating, follow instructions from emergency personnel, stay on designated evacuation routes, and avoid closed roads and areas.