Salem Reporter publishes a regular column from Mark Wardell, West Salem team leader for Salem’s Community Emergency Response Team, focusing on emergency preparedness and planning.

The question that came up most during the past month was about evacuation during an emergency, specifically, evacuating from wildfire. I put that question to Joe Hutchinson, our city emergency manager, for his thoughts.

He said, “As you know, it would depend on the situation (wildfire, earthquake, flood, manmade…). As each situation is / can be fluid, we would assess / decide if the situation requires evacuation or shelter in place.”

Joe’s response underscores a fundamental truth about emergency preparedness: flexibility is key. Evacuation isn’t a one-size-fits-all scenario; the decision to leave your home hinges entirely on the nature and severity of the unfolding crisis.

While specific city-wide plans are situation-dependent, understanding the broad categories of threats that might necessitate evacuation can help individuals make informed decisions and prepare accordingly.

One of the most common reasons for evacuation orders is the imminent threat of wildfire. In a region like ours, particularly during dry summer months, a rapidly spreading wildfire can pose a direct danger to life and property. Erratic winds can push flames quickly, and heavy smoke can create hazardous air quality and reduce visibility to near zero, making travel dangerous.

Another significant trigger for evacuation is flooding. Whether caused by heavy rainfall overwhelming local waterways, dam failures, or even coastal storm surges, rising waters can quickly inundate homes and roadways, making them impassable and potentially life-threatening.

Earthquakes, while unpredictable in their exact timing, can also lead to widespread evacuations. A significant seismic event can cause structural damage to buildings, trigger landslides or tsunamis (especially in coastal areas) and disrupt essential services like gas lines and power.   

Beyond natural disasters, man-made incidents can also necessitate evacuation. These could include hazardous material spills requiring a buffer zone to protect public health, large-scale law enforcement actions where public safety is at risk, or even utility failures that render homes uninhabitable for extended periods, particularly during extreme weather.

In each of these scenarios, the overarching goal of an evacuation order is to move people out of harm’s way to a safer location. Emergency management professionals assess the evolving situation, weigh the risks, and make the difficult decision to order an evacuation when they believe it is the best course of action to protect lives. Having a “go-bag” ready and a basic evacuation plan in mind is a key part of being prepared. This is important even before an official order is issued.

The Go-Bag

The idea of having a “go-bag” packed and a basic evacuation plan formulated isn’t about fear-mongering; it’s about empowering yourself and your loved ones to act swiftly and thoughtfully when time is of the essence. When an emergency unfolds, the moments leading up to a potential evacuation order can be filled with uncertainty. Having these preparations in place can significantly increase your ability to respond effectively.

Thinking about your go-bag involves considering the essentials you would need to sustain yourself and your family for at least a few days away from home. This includes things like water (ideally a gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food items, a first-aid kit, medications, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, copies of important documents in a waterproof bag, cash, personal hygiene items, a multi-purpose tool, and perhaps even a blanket or sleeping bag depending on your climate and the time of year.

Tailoring your go-bag to your specific needs is crucial – consider infants, seniors, or individuals with disabilities in your household and pack accordingly.

Developing a basic evacuation plan involves thinking about where you might go. Do you have family or friends who live outside of potential hazard zones? Identifying primary and secondary meeting places can be vital, especially if family members are separated during an emergency. Consider potential transportation routes and have backup plans in case primary routes are blocked. It’s also wise to discuss communication strategies with your family – how will you stay in touch if cell service is unreliable?

Understanding the three levels of evacuation can also inform your personal planning.

Level 1: Get Ready signifies that there is a potential threat in your area. This is the time to start gathering essential items, monitor news and alerts closely, and ensure you have a vehicle fueled and ready.

Level 2: Get Set means the threat is significant, and you should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice. This is when having your go-bag readily accessible, and reviewing your evacuation plan becomes critical. Authorities may not issue a mandatory evacuation (Level 3) immediately, but the situation is escalating.

This is where the wisdom of leaving on your own at Level 2: Get Set can be particularly relevant. Waiting for a Level 3: Go Now order can sometimes mean facing congested roadways, limited visibility due to smoke or other conditions, and increased stress. By proactively evacuating at a Level 2, when conditions may still be relatively manageable, you give yourself more time, potentially safer travel conditions, and the ability to make more thoughtful decisions. Ultimately, being prepared and informed empowers you to make the best choices for your circumstances, even before an official order is given.

Week by week to become 2 Weeks Ready

The end is in sight. If you’ve been keeping up and following along with at least some of these suggestions, I know that you’re better prepared than you were before, and that is the goal. Keep it going. Go back and pick up any weeks that you may have skipped and keep working on it week by week as you are able. And when you’re two-weeks ready, it’s time to start on the next two weeks.

Week 38 – Continuing with tool time, it’s time for screwdrivers and assorted screws…you just never know the possibilities until you’re without them!

Week 39 – We’ve packed food and clothing; now it’s time for shelter needs. Heavy tarps or plastic sheeting for shelter, to keep dry, and to insulate yourself from weather elements.

Week 40 – Don’t give up yet; we still have more necessities. This week is a toothbrush and toothpaste. Notice how everything just seems right when you have a clean mouth?

Week 41 – This week’s item is paper plates! No one wants to do dishes…ever…so go with paper. It’s not a recycler’s dream, but it will save water, the most precious resource.

Coming up next month

This month’s article was based on questions I received from readers or people I work with here in West Salem. If there is a question you have, or something you would like to see me discuss, please reach out and let me know.

If you have any questions about this article, preparedness in general, or if you’d like to inquire about joining CERT or scheduling a CERT presentation for your organization, please don’t hesitate to contact me, Mark Wardell, at [email protected].

STORY TIP OR IDEA? Send an email to Salem Reporter’s news team: [email protected].

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