Is it wise to share evacuation routes on social media?

The Risks of Sharing Evacuation Routes Online

When you share your evacuation route on social media, you are essentially broadcasting your plan to the world. This can be a significant risk, especially if you have a high-risk target or are living in an area prone to natural disasters or terrorism. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 74% of households in the United States do not have a written emergency plan, and sharing your evacuation route online can potentially put your family at risk of being targeted.

Evacuation Route Planning Best Practices

To minimize the risks associated with evacuation route planning, consider the following best practices: Use a secure and encrypted method to store and communicate your evacuation route with your family members. This can include using a password-protected document or a secure messaging app. When sharing your evacuation route with emergency services or other trusted individuals, use a code name or a generic description to avoid raising suspicions. For example, you can use a landmark or a geographical feature to describe your evacuation route instead of a specific street name.

Secure Communication Strategies

To communicate securely with your family members during an emergency, consider using a two-way radio or a satellite phone. These devices can provide a secure and reliable means of communication, even in areas with poor cell phone coverage. When using a messaging app or email to communicate your evacuation route, use a secure and encrypted service such as Signal or ProtonMail. Avoid using public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks to communicate your evacuation route, as these can be intercepted by hackers or other unauthorized individuals.