Evacuation

There are a number of ways people will be informed of the need to evacuate.

• TV and radio;
• Public address systems;
• Door to door informing;
• Websites; and,
• Social media

Should an evacuation be necessary, Sussex Police will be responsible for coordinating the evacuation supported by local authorities and voluntary organisations.

Every effort will be made to give people as much time as possible to prepare. However, this may not be possible in some circumstances such as a bomb threat or fire where the immediate threat to lives is at risk.

When you are informed of the need to evacuate follow the instructions provided by the emergency services and other organisations.

In most circumstances you cannot be forced to leave your home. The evacuation process is complicated and requires a large amount of resources. Consider your own position carefully when advised to evacuate. If you refuse to evacuate it may be not possible to assist you if the situation escalates. Most importantly do not argue with any officer as this will delay the process and potentially put lives at risk.

Preparing to evacuate

If you have to evacuate, download our evacuation advice document and use it to prepare. Similar leaflets may be handed to you at the time.

Evacuation

At the time of the evacuation you will be directed to report to a rest centre otherwise known as an Emergency Reception Centre. Depending on your location, transport may be available to take you to the centre. You will be sent to an assembly point for collection (see rest centres for more information).

Pets

In extreme circumstances it may not be possible to take pets with you. In flooding incidents, the advice may be to place your pets on high ground. Emergency rest centres have limited capacity to house pets. If necessary you will be required to bring your own cage for your pet. We will do everything possible to provide accommodation at a particular centre. However, it will be at the discretion of the centre manager whether to accept pets.