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With smoke recently inundating our region and evacuations for the wildfires in the Spokane area on people’s minds, the four Western Washington counties of King, Pierce, Snohomish and Thurston are joining forces, along with partners, to launch a regional "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign. This initiative aims to simplify evacuation messages to the public. These clear, straightforward messages are intended to save lives as people prepare to evacuate.
Due to climate change, wildfires have become an annual threat requiring public outreach and preparation, particularly on the west side of the Cascades, an area that historically has not seen widespread wildfires. The "Ready, Set, Go!" evacuation campaign informs the public on how to respond to the three levels of evacuations, and prepares them on the actions they should take at each level when alerted by authorities.
This evacuation program is also intended for an all-hazards evacuation approach with an initial emphasis on wildfires.
Key Components of the Campaign:
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"Ready" Phase (Level 1): Be aware of the danger in your area and start preparing for possible evacuation. Monitor local media and check on neighbors. If you do not already have an evacuation plan or a Go! kit, assemble these now. Conditions can change suddenly, and you may not receive a Level 2 "Be Set” warning before you are ordered to Level 3 “Go!” Prepare both the inside and outside of your home for fire. Leave if you feel unsafe -- do not wait for an official evacuation order.
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"Set" Phase (Level 2): Be prepared for sudden or short-notice evacuation. People who need help or more time to evacuate -- such as people with disabilities, people with small children, people with medical conditions and people with large animals -- should evacuate now. Ensure your evacuation plan checklist is complete and that your Go! kit is in your vehicle. Stay informed and be aware of alerts from local law enforcement and fire departments. Always remember to leave if you feel unsafe, do not wait for an official evacuation order.
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"Go!" Phase (Level 3): Go now! Danger in your area is current or imminent and you should evacuate immediately. Follow directions from law enforcement or fire departments and do not return home until officials have determined it is safe. Notification that it is safe to return home will be given as soon as possible.
The "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration. By bringing together the expertise of multiple counties, emergency response agencies, and community organizations, the campaign can create a more resilient and informed population.
Residents of King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Thurston Counties are encouraged to participate actively in the "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign. By preparing their homes, accessing informational materials, and staying informed about local emergency updates, individuals will play a vital role in enhancing the safety and preparedness of their communities.
Quotes:
“In an era where the threat of wildfires and other emergencies is ever-present, the 'Ready, Set, Go!' Evacuation Campaign represents a proactive step towards safeguarding the residents of King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Thurston Counties. Through education, collaboration, and community engagement, this initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on regional disaster preparedness and response operations.”
Brendan McCluskey, director of King County Emergency Management
“When I was a young child, my family had to evacuate our home to escape a wildfire. I know what an emotionally wrenching experience it can be—the uncertainty of whether to go and when. With the 'Ready, Set, Go!' messaging, we hope to alleviate some of that stress, and hope residents will take the time to learn what the different phases mean so they are able to spring into action when needed.”
Lucia Schmit, director of Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management
“Wildfires are becoming a more common and frequent occurrence. We encourage our communities to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice by building an emergency kit, making an emergency plan, and staying informed so that you are ready, set, and can leave when it’s time to go!”
Kyle Bustad, Emergency Management Manager, Thurston County Emergency Management
“Wildfires are one of several emergencies in our region that could result in people needing to evacuate for their safety. Pierce County also has lahars and the threat of a volcanic eruption because Mt. Rainier is in our backyard. The Ready/Set/Go message is important for all of us to learn and make a part of our plans so we can survive and recover from emergency events.”
Jody Ferguson, director of Pierce County Emergency Management
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Media Contacts:
- Sheri Badger, King County Emergency Management
- Scott North, Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management
- Kyle Bustad, Thurston County Emergency Management
- Mike Halliday, Pierce County Department of Emergency Management
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