 June 13, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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Kitsap County joins regional "Ready, Set, Go!" evacuation messaging campaign
Port Orchard, Wash. - The threat of wildfire has increased across the nation, including in Western Washington. One important step in facing that threat is preparing to communicate quickly with residents and businesses if evacuation from a wildfire or another hazard is necessary. As wildfire season begins here in Washington, Kitsap County is joining forces with six other counties to highlight the regional ?Ready, Set, Go!? evacuation campaign. ?The campaign outlines the three evacuation levels and provides straightforward messages that describe actions to take at each level when alerted by authorities.
The "Ready, Set, Go!" evacuation campaign informs the public on how to respond to the three levels of evacuations (traditionally Levels 1, 2, and 3), and prepares them on actions they should take at each level when alerted by authorities. This messaging is intended not only wildfires but for any hazard which triggers the need for evacuation.
 Key Components of the Campaign
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"Ready" Phase: 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: Short notice evacuation likely in your area (Level 2) - Be prepared for sudden evacuation. People who need help or more time to evacuate - 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 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: Evacuate immediately from your area (Level 3) - Go now! Danger in your area is current or imminent. Follow directions from law enforcement or fire departments and do not return home until officials have determined it is safe. Notification 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.
Jan Glarum, Director of Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management notes, "Emergencies can arise unexpectedly anywhere and at any time. Being poised to respond when the situation demands is an absolute necessity. Knowing that residents will be able to understand and respond to evacuation alerts is a critical step in our readiness to respond. Kitsap County is excited to be part of the regional 'Ready, Set, Go!' evacuation campaign."
Residents of King, Pierce, Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Kitsap 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 can play a vital role in enhancing the safety and preparedness of their communities.
Kitsap County residents can sign up for local emergency alerts, including ?Ready, Set, Go!? notifications, at kcowa.us/alert. Additionally, check to make sure your smart phone is turned on to receive emergency notifications. The full news release can be viewed at the Kitsap Department of Emergency Management website.
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Links used in this document:
kcowa.us/alert: https://kcowa.us/alert
Kitsap Department of Emergency Management website: www.kitsapdem.com/ready-set-go/
Website: www.kitsap.gov
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