The first hour
- Listen for sirens and official alerts. Sirens mean turn on local radio or TV, not necessarily leave.
- Follow the instruction given: shelter in place or evacuate your zone.
- If sheltering: go inside, close windows and doors, turn off fans and HVAC.
- Take KI only if officials tell you to. States near plants often hand out KI to residents in the 10-mile zone.
The first day
- If evacuating, take your go-bag and follow official routes. Close windows and vents in the car.
- If you were outside, change clothes and shower (no conditioner).
- Follow guidance on milk, garden produce and water in the 50-mile zone.
The first week and beyond
- Officials will say when it's safe to return.
- Follow any long-term food guidance.
- Keep KI until its expiration date if you got some.
Get ready now: checklist
Your checks save on this phone.
Common mistakes
- Self-evacuating when told to shelter, which clogs roads.
- Taking KI 'just in case.'
- Driving to pick up kids. Schools in EPZs have their own evacuation plans.
Keeping kids calm
- Know your kids' school relocation site ahead of time.
- Explain sirens get tested regularly, and what to do if you hear one.
Gear that helps
- Battery radio: my pick, Midland ER310
- Potassium iodide (from state program or FDA-approved)
- Go-bag see my kit lists
- Paper map with evacuation route
- Plastic bags
- Wipes: my pick, Huggies Natural Care Sensitive Wipes, Unscented, 768 ct (12 packs)
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