Lakewood residents are receiving fire evacuation warnings. Here’s what those levels mean
Lakewood residents are receiving evacuation warnings Wednesday because of a 3-alarm brush fire at Fort Steilacoom Park on Wednesday. The U.S. Forest Service offers guidance on what the three evacuation levels mean:
Level 1: Initial evacuation alert
This warning is for your awareness. Be ready to start or begin preparing for Level 2. Consider what to pack in the event an evacuation is necessary, the U.S. Forest Service said.
Level 2: Evacuation warning or notice.
You should begin packing the necessary items, preparing your family, pets and car.
Necessary items can be remembered using the six P’s method:
▪ A plan for the people in your family (including a meeting place.)
▪ Personal items (including toiletries, food and water for 2-3 days and special personal possessions.)
▪ Prescriptions: Have your full, current supply of prescriptions packed.
▪ Photographs (and other mementos) which cannot be replaced.
▪ Pets: Have a plan in place and pets secured so frightened pets don’t escape fenced yards or kennels.
▪ Papers: Pack all important papers, including reference phone numbers, account numbers and the like.
Level 3: Evacuation request or order
There is an immediate threat in your area. You need to leave. People will be given a specified time period or routes, according to the Forest Service.
▪ You should take your family, pets, and necessary items, including medications and important papers, and evacuate now if you are in a Level 3 area.
▪ Check in with the local Red Cross shelter (even if you don’t intend to stay there) to let them know where you will be in case your family is looking for you.
▪ Drive with your lights on, safely and slowly and remain aware of your surroundings.
Where to evacuate
The City of Lakewood was asking residents on 98th Street east of Farwest Drive, those who live between 98th and 99th Streets, and between Farwest Drive and Fort Steilacoom Park to be ready to evacuate a brush fire Wednesday.
City of Lakewood spokesperson Brynn Grimley told the The News Tribune that although the evacuation is not mandatory, Claudia Thomas Middle School at 11509 Holden Road is open for people to safely wait while West Pierce Fire & Rescue deals with the brush fire.
Grimley also noted that the American Red Cross in Tacoma is offering free water to evacuees who need it.
West Pierce Fire & Rescue will continue to provide updates on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
This story was originally published August 16, 2023 at 3:54 PM.
