When can I return home if I evacuated?

You can return home after an evacuation when local officials have lifted the evacuation order and declared it safe to return.

Here’s why:

• Safety is important.  Evacuation orders are issued to protect lives.
• Returning before it is safe may expose you to hazards (downed power lines, structural damage, etc.) and limited resources (no electricity or water).
• Returning too early may also prevent first responders, utility crews and others from doing their jobs.
• Orderly, phased re-entry allows officials to assess the situation, manage traffic flow and ensure enough resources are available.

Pay close attention to official communication channels for instructions and guidance on when it’s safe to return home