Understanding evacuations

Learn about evacuation notification levels and planning for emergencies.

Overview

During some emergencies, like floods or wildfires, you may need to leave your home.

Planning for situations like these involves understanding the alert levels that are used when evacuation is necessary, identifying safe locations ahead of time and knowing how you will get there. 

Be ready to evacuate and take shelter in another location when needed.

During times when evacuations may be necessary, stay informed by signing up for local alerting systems, monitoring community and municipal channels and following NBEMO. Alert Ready messages will be issued when necessary. 

Evacuation notification levels

NotificationWhat it meansWhat to do
Evacuation alertNotification that a hazard is approaching or occurring, and residents should be prepared to leave on short notice.
  • prepare emergency kits and essential items
  • make arrangements for transportation and accommodations
  • monitor official information sources
Evacuation orderDirective indicating an immediate threat to life safety, requiring residents to leave the area without delay.
  • leave immediately using designated routes
  • follow instructions from authorities
  • do not delay for non-essential items
Evacuation rescindFormal notice that the evacuation order is no longer in effect and residents may return when safe to do so.
  • follow re-entry instructions
  • be aware of residual hazards (e.g., debris, utilities, infrastructure damage)
  • follow any access restrictions