Your 2025 Guide to Evacuation Plans (with Template)

Emergencies can strike when you least expect them. Having a clear evacuation plan is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your loved ones, and even your pets and livestock. 

Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster, a fire, or another crisis, planning ahead can give you the confidence you need to act swiftly and safely when it matters most.

1. Create a detailed evacuation plan

Start by mapping out the logistics of your evacuation. Identify the safest exits from your home, workplace, and other frequently visited locations. Consider alternative routes if your primary exit is blocked. Outline specific meeting points for your family or group, both near your home and further away, in case you’re separated during an emergency.

Write everything down and keep it accessible. A well-thought-out evacuation plan reduces panic and ensures everyone knows exactly what to do.

2. Set up a communication plan with family and friends

Communication is critical during an emergency. Establish how you’ll stay in touch with family and friends if you’re separated or can’t access your usual methods of communication.

Decide on a primary and secondary method for contacting each other, such as texting, calling, or using a messaging app. Pick an out-of-town contact as a communication hub if local lines are down. Share your plan with everyone involved and test it regularly to ensure it works.

3. Keep an emergency contacts list handy

Create a comprehensive list of emergency contacts, including phone numbers for family, friends, neighbors, and local emergency services. Don’t rely solely on your phone — write it down and keep a copy in your wallet, vehicle, and emergency go bag.

Include contacts for utilities, your insurance provider, and your workplace. Having this information in one place will save precious time when every second counts.

4. Determine what to bring when evacuating

Think carefully about what you’ll need if you have to leave your home quickly. Important documents, medications, and irreplaceable items like family photos should be on your list.

Create categories for must-bring items (such as IDs, insurance documents, and prescriptions) and nice-to-have items (like a laptop or sentimental keepsakes). Knowing what to prioritize reduces the risk of forgetting something critical in the moment.

5. Assemble your ‘go bag’

A go bag is a portable kit with everything you’ll need during an evacuation. Pack essentials like: 

1. Water and food: Bottled water and non-perishable snacks or meal bars.
2. Clothing: Change of clothes, sturdy shoes, and a lightweight blanket.
3. First aid kit: Basic medical supplies and any prescription medications.
4. Hygiene supplies: Travel-sized toiletries, wet wipes, and sanitary products.
5. Important documents: Copies of IDs, insurance papers, medical records, and emergency contacts.
6. Cash: Don’t overdo it, but bring enough cash for a few days’ worth of necessities in case local systems are down and stores can only accept cash.
7. Tools: Pack a multi-tool, duct tape, and waterproof matches or a lighter.
8. Flashlight and batteries: A reliable flashlight with extra batteries or a crank-powered option.
9. Communication tools: Portable power bank, phone charging cable, and a battery-powered or crank radio.
10. Air quality protection: Dust masks for filtering contaminants.
11. Maps and navigation: Paper maps of your local area and a whistle for signaling.
12. Pet supplies: Food, bowls, and leashes if you have pets.
13. Comfort items: Small toys for kids, ponchos for rain, and anything else to ease stress.

Make sure each family member has their own go bag, tailored to their needs, and store them in an easy-to-reach location.

6. Know the best local evacuation routes

Familiarize yourself with the main evacuation routes in your area. Research alternative paths in case your primary route is congested or inaccessible. Many local governments provide maps and guidance for evacuation, so take advantage of these resources.

Practice driving these routes to ensure you’re comfortable navigating them, even under stress.

7. Understand roadway safety for evacuation

During an evacuation, roadways can become chaotic. Stay calm, follow traffic laws, and avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar areas. Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times so you’re not stranded during an emergency.

If evacuation orders are in place, follow officials’ instructions closely. They’ll guide you to the safest routes and destinations.

8. Prepare for power outages and utility shutoffs

Emergencies often lead to power outages or the need to shut off utilities. Learn how to turn off your home’s gas, water, and electricity safely. Keep flashlights, batteries, and a portable power bank charged and ready to use.

Consider investing in a backup generator if power outages are common in your area, but always use it safely — and only outdoors.

9. Develop animal safety and evacuation strategies

Pets are part of the family, and their safety matters too. Plan for their needs during an evacuation by knowing where they can stay if shelters don’t allow animals. Identify pet-friendly hotels or boarding facilities in advance.

Keep carriers, leashes, and food ready to grab at a moment’s notice. Ensure your pets are microchipped and have up-to-date ID tags with your contact information.

10. Create specialized evacuation checklists for pets

Each pet’s needs are different. Dogs may need leashes and food bowls, while cats require litter and a portable litter box. Reptiles, birds, and other animals may have unique requirements like heat lamps or specialized food.

Write down a checklist for each pet and keep it with your evacuation supplies so you don’t miss anything important.

11. Pack emergency supply kits for livestock

If you have livestock, plan for their evacuation as well. Prepare feed, water, and medical supplies for at least three days. Identify local resources, such as fairgrounds or livestock shelters, that can accommodate your animals during an emergency.

Develop a plan for safely loading and transporting your livestock, and practice it ahead of time to avoid delays.

12. Understand the importance of mental preparation

Emergencies are as much a mental challenge as they are a physical one. Preparing your mind for high-pressure situations can help you stay calm and make better decisions.

Talk with your family about potential scenarios and how to handle them. Reassure children that planning is a way to stay safe. The more mentally prepared you are, the better you’ll handle the unexpected.

13. Practice your evacuation plan

A plan is only useful if everyone knows how to follow it. Schedule regular practice runs to rehearse evacuation procedures. Walk through exit routes, test communication plans, and simulate packing your go bag.

Practicing reduces confusion and builds confidence, so when the time comes, everyone knows what to do.

14. Update your evacuation plan regularly

Life changes, and so should your evacuation plan. Review and update it at least once a year, or after major life events like moving, adding a family member, or adopting a new pet.

Stay informed about new evacuation routes or local hazards and adjust your plan accordingly.

15. Familiarize yourself with local emergency services

Know what resources are available in your area. Contact your local fire department, emergency management office, or community center to learn about evacuation protocols and support services.

Being familiar with these resources will help you navigate emergencies more effectively.

16. Stay informed about evacuation orders

During an emergency, reliable information is critical. Sign up for local alert systems and download apps that provide real-time updates.

Monitor official channels like government websites or radio broadcasts, and follow instructions promptly when evacuation orders are issued.

17. Post-evacuation: ensure a safe return home

Returning home after an evacuation can present new challenges. Inspect your property carefully for damage, gas leaks, or downed power lines. Wait for official clearance before re-entering your area.

If repairs are needed, document everything for insurance purposes and contact professionals for assistance. Focus on rebuilding safely and prioritizing your family’s well-being.

Evacuation orders — here’s what you’ll need (free template)

Create a plan for what to do and how to maintain access to critical information during a natural disaster.

Make a plan to reunite with loved ones

If you’re separated from your family during the evacuation, you’ll appreciate having a plan for where you’ll meet up.

Gather your valuable ID documents

Store digital versions of your important IDs where you can access them easily. Stash the originals in waterproof or fireproof containers and/or take them with you.

Gather information needed for insurance claims

You’ll want to have a policy in place before you need it. Also, you’ll thank yourself later if you take time now to inventory important possessions for future claims.

Inventory keepsakes

If you want to take things with you, be sure to inventory the items that mean the most. You could also make a list of things that you’d like to move to the safest on-site location, like a safe or the top floor/attic.

Create a list of before-you-go instructions

Make a list of what you’d like to do if you learn that a natural disaster is coming and you have some extra time to prepare.