Evacuations

About Evacuations

There are many things that may cause an evacuation of your home, neighborhood, or business. Evacuations should be addressed as part of everyone's planning efforts. Emergency personnel will tell you when to evacuate through local media, direct contact, emergency vehicle loudspeakers, and the City's emergency notification phone system. Evacuation is used as a last resort when serious threats exist to Danville citizens and businesses.

If you must evacuate your home, your first plan should always be to stay with friends or family. Once you arrive at your friend or relative's home, contact Danville Emergency Management at 434-799-6535 to let them know where you may be contacted if necessary. Residents should evacuate immediately when:

  • They are directed to do so by emergency services personnel
  • They are in immediate danger

Emergency Go Pak

In an evacuation such as for hazardous material release, flood, or other man-made or natural disaster emergency, Danville Emergency Management will advise affected residents to leave the immediate area until it is safe to return. Always have your Emergency Go Pak prepared and easily accessible in case of any evacuation. You may not have time to assemble your belongings, and you may not be allowed back for a period of time.

Planning Ahead

By planning now, you can be prepared to evacuate when and if the time comes. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Know evacuation plans for all the places you and your household members spend time; often buildings have floor evacuation routes posted in rooms and hallways
  • Make alternate transportation plans; the means of transportation you usually use may not be available
  • Practice your plan through regular drills; families and people who practice escape drills can evacuate with greater ease than those who are unfamiliar with the procedures
  • Include your pets in your planning
  • Take emergency preparedness training and start a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in your neighborhood or workplace

When you evacuate, remember:

  • Secure your home if there is time - close and lock windows and doors, unplug appliances, and turn off utilities if instructed to by authorities
  • Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable, protective clothing such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts
  • Bring your Emergency Go Pak with you
  • Do not use elevators during fires or other emergencies unless directed to do so by emergency services personnel - you could be trapped if the power goes out or is shut off
  • Stay tuned to local news in case evacuation routes change based on the emergency
  • Go to the nearest safe place or shelter as soon as instructed