Show All Answers

1. How will I be notified of an evacuation?

For immediate evacuations, the fire department/police officers will go door to door to notify residents to evacuate.

We will also use our Emergency Notification System to call homes in the area to notify them of the evacuation.  The system already has all landline phone numbers in it, if you would like to register your cell phone you will need to sign up at Alert Yakima.  Be sure to put in your address so when we map the evacuation area message your phone number is captured.

You can find more information on evacuations in Yakima County here.

2. How do I find out about updates on evacuations?

You can check these places for updates on evacuation orders and lifting of evacuation order:

• OEM Facebook
• OEM Twitter
• OEM Website

3. How do I get updates on an incident?

You can check these places for updates on the progress of an incident.   We try to provide status updates on an ongoing incident every 12-16 hours, or sooner if there are major changes.  We are working on a method that you can call in and listen to a recording with a status of the incident.  

• OEM Facebook
• OEM Twitter
• OEM Website

4. How do I request/offer support for evacuated livestock?

We are currently working on a method for you to offer and request support for evacuated livestock. 

5. How do I ask a specific question about an incident?

If it is an emergency call 91-1-.  If not, check our website and social media for the incident update information to see if that answers your question.

If not, you can send us a message on Facebook or call our office (509-574-1900) during business hours.  We will attempt to answer your question as quickly as possible, but answers may be delayed based on the needs of the incident.

6. How can I donate?

The best place to donate is to the American Red Cross.  The Red Cross has a process in place to support first responders within a few hours of the incident starting with food, water, etc.  The best donation is monetary; the Red Cross may be able to take canned goods and other types of shelf stable food but they quickly become overwhelmed with those types of donations.  We cannot accept donations of homemade food.

Alternatively, you can contact your local fire department (after the incident is over) and talk to them about how you can donate to their organization.

Visit our donations page for more information.