If an incident poses a risk to life and health in an area, the police may order an evacuation. During an evacuation, the municipality is responsible for providing necessary health care, care services and social support to evacuees and their families.
When might an evacuation be necessary?
An evacuation may be required in situations such as:
- Fire
- Release of hazardous substances or gases
- Risk of explosion
- Flooding
- Landslides
- Other serious accidents or emergencies
The police assess the need for evacuation in cooperation with other authorities and specialist agencies. People affected will be notified through various channels, such as direct notification, SMS, the municipality's website, police information channels and local media.
What to do if you are told to evacuate
If you receive an evacuation order:
- Follow all instructions and advice from the police and other authorities.
- Leave your home as quickly as possible.
- Turn off the stove and any electrical equipment that may pose a risk.
- Close all windows and lock the door.
You are responsible for taking care of yourself and your family as far as possible. If you can, you should arrange your own transport, accommodation and food. The municipality will prioritise assistance for people who are unable to evacuate on their own, such as those with health challenges or those who depend on municipal services.
Where can you go?
As part of your self-preparedness, you should think in advance about where you could stay if you need to leave your home. This could include:
- Family or friends
- A holiday home or cabin
- Another safe location outside the affected area
- An Evacuee and Family Assistance Centre (EPS)
If you use a car, make sure you have enough fuel or battery charge. Expect heavy traffic and reduced accessibility during a crisis situation.
What should you bring?
If you need to evacuate, you should bring the essential items you may need during the first few days:
- Identification (passport, national ID card or driving licence)
- Mobile phone, charger and power bank if available
- Medicines and necessary medical equipment
- Clothing and toiletries for at least three days
- Warm clothing or blankets
- Some food and drinking water
- Supplies for infants and young children, if relevant
These items will help you manage if it takes time before you can return home.
The municipality's responsibility
The municipality helps safeguard residents and others staying in the municipality during a crisis. During an evacuation, the municipality may:
- Assist people who are unable to evacuate on their own
- Provide temporary accommodation when necessary
- Offer health and care services
- Provide information and support to evacuees and their families
The municipality works closely with the police, emergency services and voluntary organisations during major incidents.
Evacuee and Family Assistance Centre (EPS)
During major incidents, an Evacuee and Family Assistance Centre (EPS) may be established. Here, evacuated persons and family members can receive information, practical assistance, care and follow-up during the acute phase of an incident. Health professionals may also be available if needed.
For people who have no other options, the EPS may provide temporary accommodation and simple meals. The municipality will communicate the location of the EPS if one is established.
Pets are not allowed at the EPS, with the exception of guide dogs.