A message from Sheriff Tom Jones to help you prepare for a wildfire emergency
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We’ve all seen the damage caused by the Sleepy Hollow Fire in Wenatchee, and I know we all are praying for everyone who has suffered through the loss of their home, business or workplace. It’s also important to thank all the first responders and the resources from the state’s all-hazard emergency mobilization, who without a doubt kept this disaster from being any worse.
You’ve probably all heard the terms “Level 1”, “Level 2” and “Level 3” when discussing emergency evacuations. I want to take a moment to remind citizens about the importance of knowing what these terms mean and what actions citizens need to take under each condition.
Level 1: Ready. Level 1 evacuations are an alert. There is no immediate danger to your home, family, or business, but the fire (or other danger) may be moving toward you. Now is the time to get ready. Refine your evacuation plans, and gather the things you’ll need if you must evacuate. Residents with special needs, or those with pets or livestock, should take note and make preparations for relocating family members, pets, and livestock.
Level 2: Set. Level 2 evacuations indicate there is a significant risk to your area. The fire (or other danger) is moving closer to you. A mandatory evacuation order may be issued at any time. Now is the time to prepare for immediate evacuation. Resident should either voluntarily relocate to a shelter or with family/friends outside of the area, or, be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
Level 3: Go! Level 3 means you are in immediate danger. Load your family and pets into your vehicle, and GO NOW. There will be no further warnings!
To know when your area may be under evacuation orders, we have several different ways of getting the word out, all of which are free:
· Monitor local media (TV and radio) for updates. GCSO partners with the media to help spread the word.
· Subscribe to the Sheriff’s Nixle Mass Notification System https://local.nixle.com/grant-county-sheriffs-office/
· Like the GCSO’s Facebook page: facebook.com/GrantCoSheriff
· Follow GCSO on Twitter: @GrantCoSheriff
· Mobile Patrol Smartphone app for Apple and Android devices: http://www.appriss.com/MP_Download/
Please take the time to sit down with your family and neighbors to discuss this life-saving information.
Thank you,
Tom Jones
Grant County Sheriff
