Evacuation

The City of Pitt Meadows may issue an Evacuation Alert or Evacuation Order in response to major disasters or emergencies.

Know the Evacuation Stages

Depending on the severity of the emergency, local authorities may issue an Evacuation Alert or Evacuation. It's important to understand the difference.

Evacuation Alert: This is a notification of potential danger. Be prepared to ready to leave on short notice.
Evacuation Order: You are at risk. Leave the area immediately.
Evacuation Rescinded: You are safe to return home.

If an Evacuation Order is issued, you must leave your home immediately. Stay calm and follow the instructions from local authorities. An evacuation "order" is notification of imminent danger to the lives and property of people in the area. You must leave immediately. Ignoring such a warning could jeopardize the safety of your family or individuals who may eventually have to come to your rescue.
Follow evacuation routes that have been indicated by the City avoiding Disaster Response Routes, wherever possible.
Make sure you take:
- Important documents
- Your emergency kit, including essential items such as medications, diapers, baby food, clothes, cell phone, purse or wallet and keys—only if they are immediately available.
- All pets in a kennel or on a leash
Leave a message on the front door of your home letting others know where you are heading.
Before you go
- Turn off appliances, including stove, lights and heaters in your home
- Bring a battery-operated or wind-up radio to listen for updates
Driving
- Only drive as many of your vehicles as you need to. The fewer cars on the road, the faster evacuation will be for everyone.
- Follow the instructions of emergency response workers, who will be stationed at intersections along the designated evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts.
- During a flood, do not try to drive through flood waters. Fast water can sweep your car away. If you are caught in fast rising waters and your car stalls, leave it behind.
Communication
- Phone lines may not be working. Even if they are working, keep them clear. Only use your phone if you need emergency services.
- If you are evacuated, register with the designated Emergency Support Services (ESS) Reception Centre, so you can be contacted and reunited with your family and loved ones.
- Know whether to pick your child up at school or daycare, or from the authorities at an evacuation shelter location.
Download printable evacuation information:
Find additional emergency preparedness resources in the Resource Library.
Resource Library

Know the Evacuation Stages

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