During an evacuation
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Evacuation orders are issued by the municipal or provincial authorities. Authorities will not ask you to leave your home unless they have reason to believe that you may be in danger. If an evacuation order is issued, take your emergency kit, your wallet, personal identification for each family member, and copies of essential family documents with you. Bring a cellular phone and spare battery or charger with you, if you have one.
When evacuating, use travel routes specified by local authorities. Other routes may be closed off for emergency use only or due to wildfires.
If you have time, call or email your out-of-town contact. Tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive. Once you are safe, let them know. Tell them if any family members have become separated.
If you are out of town, make sure that you have a trusted friend or family member who can access your home to ensure it is secure and remove any important documents that you may need, in the event that an emergency alert is given.
Take pets with you. Lock your home. Follow instructions from authorities.
Do not return home until authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
It is illegal to be on the streets of an evacuated community, and if you refuse to leave your house when the evacuation orders are issued, emergency services may not be available to assist you if the situation takes a turn for the worst.
Pet and livestock safety
Always remember to bring enough food and water for your pets and do not forget any medications they require.
Commercial livestock producers and hobbyists are responsible to have plans for the evacuation of their livestock and be familiar with the information on farm preparedness which can be found on the Government of Alberta Farm animals and livestock preparedness page. Family pets may become stressed or anxious in emergency situations. To keep them safe and avoid them getting out while trying to evacuate, keep them leashed or secured in travel crates as you leave your home.
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