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Norfolk implementing ‘Know Your Zone’ program, emergency evacuation information

Posted at 7:26 PM, May 29, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-29 19:26:24-04

NORFOLK, Va. – The City of Norfolk is implementing the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s Know Your Zone program.

Photo courtesy: Norfolk Department of Emergency Preparedness & Response

The Norfolk Department of Emergency Preparedness and Response will be in several parts of Norfolk around 1 p.m., placing ‘Know Your Zone’ sidewalk decals in order to spread the word.

The departments Facebook post stated they’d be in Downtown Norfolk, Ghent, the Railroad District, Park Place, Colonial Place, North Colley and Larchmont Edgewater Civic League.

Know Your Zone serves roughly 1.25 million residents who live in Coastal Virginia, the region of the state most vulnerable to hurricanes and other tropical storms, according to their website.

Whether the decision is voluntary or mandatory, Norfolk officials want to inform you on the best course of action in the case of an emergency.

Mandatory Evacuations mean that you must evacuate. If you choose to stay in the area, you do so at your own risk. Officials ask that you keep in mind emergency responders may or may not be able to get to you due to the conditions at the time.

A Voluntary Evacuation means that a citizen can choose to leave at any time or when they feel it is necessary.

Steps you can take now, according to the City of Norfolk:

  • Know Your Zone: Find your evacuation zone. If you need assistance, please call Norfolk CARES at (757)-664-6510.
  • Know Where You Will Go: The best place to evacuate is the safest place closest to home, preferably with family or friends. Use the evacuation map to identify places you could go. If needed, emergency shelters will be open, but these are bare minimum facilities, so be prepared to bring what you need.
  • Sign Up To Be Notified: Norfolk will use all available means to notify people of an evacuation, but the best way to get the message is to register for the City’s notification system, Norfolk Alert. Registering ensures that you are notified directly in the way you prefer and receive updates after the storm has passed.
  • Obtain Flood Insurance: Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage from natural disasters. Visit FloodSmart for more information.
  • Read the Virginia Hurricane Evacuation Guide
  • Secure Your Home (tie down outdoor furniture, remove debris, trim branches/trees, clean drain system, move vehicles to higher ground)
  • Create an emergency supply kit