Leaving Your Home

There may be situations when there is an incident close to your home and the emergency services tell you to evacuate your home.  They consider the need for evacuation very carefully and it is as a last resort.  You should always follow the advice of the emergency services who are working to protect your safety. 

Follow our advice on Planning for an Evacuation.

If you have time:

  • tune in to the local radio for emergency advice and instructions - BBC Radio Merseyside online (frequency 95.8FM, 1485MW, DAB).
  • follow instructions provided by the Emergency Services or the Local Authority (this may include being sent to an Emergency Centre - the location of the centre or pick up point for transport will be given at the time);
  • if instructed to leave, turn off electricity, gas and water supplies, unplug appliances and lock all doors and windows;
  • leave as quickly and calmly as possible;
  • check with close neighbours (especially vulnerable ones) to ensure they know what is happening and if they need a lift;
  • if leaving by car, follow the recommended directions. Do not take shortcuts, enter restricted areas or closed roads and be aware that parking can be limited at some emergency centres;
  • when you have left, inform anyone that usually lives in the house that you have left and for them not to go there.  Contact relatives and friends and inform them you are safe;
  • do not return home unless you are told it is safe to do so.

Grab BagTake the following with you:

  • your Emergency Grab Bag unless you have reason to believe it has been contaminated;
  • your pets : refer to the section - Preparing Your Pets
  • if you leave by car : refer to the section - Preparing your Car;
  • if you have not already prepared your Emergency Grab Bag take with you:
    • prescribed medicines, toiletries and everyday medicines;
    • a change of clothing, including baby clothes and nappies (if appropriate);
    • special dietary foods (if appropriate);
    • any important documents or valuables;
    • important telephone numbers of friends and relatives;
    • personal items such as glasses, mobile telephones, keys, cash or credit cards.