Leaving During an Emergency

What to know

If an emergency happens in your area, you may have to leave your home. Your emergency plan should include what to do if you need to leave during an emergency.

Top view of unrecognizable mother explaining to her children the assembly point map while preparing emergency backpacks

If you need to leave during an emergency

During an emergency, you may need to leave your home and go to a safer place.

If you need to leave, take your emergency kit with you.

If you need to leave, take any important items and supplies with you.

If you need to leave, keep information about your health needs with you.

If you have a medical alert tag, remember to wear it.

If you use a smartphone, think about adding information about your health needs.

You can add your health needs using the medical ID feature on your smartphone.

Be prepared to tell first responders and emergency shelter workers about your needs and how they can help you.

Start planning now for emergency transportation

Start planning now for emergency transportation

The transportation you need may not be available in an emergency.

Prepare now if you need transportation during an emergency.

Find out who provides emergency transportation in your area.

Create a list of transportation options you can use.

Find emergency resources by ZIP code with the resource locator from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

You still have rights during an emergency

You have the right to get the help you need in an emergency.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, emergency shelters must be accessible for people with disabilities.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, emergency shelters must allow service animals.

Under the Fair Housing Amendments Act, emergency shelters that are considered residences must allow emotional support animals.

Call the shelter to find out if they are considered a residence before you take your emotional support animal.

Start preparing now

Remember, emergencies can happen fast and at any time.

But you can prepare for an emergency.

Use these tips to start planning now.