CONTACT: Cherie Carey, Emergency Management Coordinator at (360) 239-1282 or cherie.carey@co.thurston.wa.us

OLYMPIA – As part of Wildfire Awareness Month, Thurston County is launching a "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign. This campaign aims to simplify evacuation messages to the public. These clear, straightforward messages are intended to save lives as people prepare to evacuate.

The "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation campaign is a crucial initiative designed to enhance community preparedness in response to the increasing threat of wildfires and other emergencies.

Wildfires have become an annual threat requiring public outreach and preparation, particularly on the west side of the Cascades, an area that historically has not seen widespread wildfires. The "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign informs the public on how to respond to the three levels of evacuations and prepares them on the actions they should take at each level when alerted by authorities.

This evacuation campaign is also intended for an all-hazards evacuation approach with an initial emphasis on wildfires.

Key Components of the Campaign:

1. "Ready" Phase (Level 1): Be aware of the danger in your area and start preparing for possible evacuation. Monitor local media and check on neighbors. If you do not already have an evacuation plan or a Go! kit, assemble these now. Conditions can change suddenly, and you may not receive a Level 2 "Be Set” warning before you are ordered to Level 3 “Go!” Prepare both the inside and outside of your home for fire. Leave if you feel unsafe -- do not wait for an official evacuation order.
2. "Set" Phase (Level 2): Be prepared for sudden or short-notice evacuation. People who need help or more time to evacuate -- such as people with disabilities, people with small children, people with medical conditions, and people with large animals -- should evacuate now. Ensure your evacuation plan checklist is complete and your Go! kit is in your vehicle. Stay informed and be aware of alerts from local law enforcement and fire departments. Always remember to leave if you feel unsafe, do not wait for an official evacuation order.
3. "Go!" Phase (Level 3): Go now! Danger in your area is current or imminent and you should evacuate immediately. Follow directions from law enforcement or fire departments and do not return home until officials have determined it is safe. Notification it is safe to return home will be given as soon as possible.

Residents of Thurston County are encouraged to participate actively in the "Ready, Set, Go!" Evacuation Campaign. Individuals will play a vital role in enhancing the safety and preparedness of their communities by preparing their homes, accessing informational materials, and staying informed about local emergency updates.

To stay connected, follow Thurston County Emergency Management on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) at: Facebook ThurstonEM, Instagram @thurstoncountyem/, and X @ThurstonEM.  

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