Evacuation Under Threat

Preparation Steps

• Plan at least two routes in opposite directions before any crisis escalates — identify primary and alternate roads, border crossings, or transport hubs.
• Keep your go-bag always ready and packed: documents, cash, medications, phone charger, and a 3-day food and water supply.
• Establish a rendezvous point and a communication plan with family members including a fallback contact outside the region.
• Identify the location of your country's embassy or consulate and register with them if you are a foreign national.
• Keep your vehicle fueled; if you don't have a vehicle, identify public transport or trusted contacts who can assist with evacuation.

Immediate Actions

• Leave early — do not wait until evacuation becomes dangerous or roads are congested or closed.
• Travel during daylight hours whenever possible; movement at night in a conflict zone carries significantly higher risk.
• Carry your documents openly and accessibly (ID, passport, any official travel permits) — checkpoint personnel will ask for them.
• Travel in groups when possible; isolated individuals are more vulnerable.
• Stay on known, established roads — avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar or unsecured territory.
• At checkpoints, follow all instructions calmly, keep hands visible, speak slowly, and never argue with armed personnel.

What to Avoid

• Do not discuss your travel plans, destination, or departure time with strangers.
• Avoid wearing military-style clothing or carrying items that could be misidentified as weapons or military equipment.
• Do not announce your departure or route on social media — this compromises your safety and the safety of others.
• Avoid driving through areas with confirmed active conflict unless you have verified safe passage from a credible authority.
• Do not turn back into a conflict zone once you have evacuated unless authorities confirm it is completely safe.

Supplies Needed

• Go-bag with personal documents (originals and copies), cash in small denominations (local and foreign if applicable), water and food for 3 days.
• Phone charger and fully charged portable battery pack.
• First aid kit.
• White cloth or flag for signaling peaceful intent at checkpoints.
• Offline maps downloaded for your route.

Recovery Steps

• Register with refugee services, humanitarian aid organizations, or official evacuation services upon arrival at a safe location.
• Contact your country's embassy if you are a foreign national — register your presence and request assistance.
• Seek medical care for any injuries sustained during evacuation, including minor wounds.
• Contact family using your pre-agreed communication plan to confirm safe arrival.
• Preserve documentation of any incidents or human rights violations for reporting to appropriate bodies.