Before you evacuate follow these simple yet important steps

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — If there’s an evacuation order in your area, there are things you’ll want to keep in mind before you leave your home.

One of the most common mistakes is taping your windows. That does almost no good and could increase danger by creating larger shards of glass if windows blow out.

Make sure you have a go-bag ready with essentials like toiletries, medicine and important documents.

Unplug electrical equipment like TVs, computers and lamps.

Leave your refrigerators and freezers plugged in unless there’s a flooding concern.

Make sure your doors are locked and secured before leaving.

Don’t leave your pets behind. Plan ahead of time to make sure you can take them where you’re going.

Be familiar with evacuation routes and make sure you have full tank of gas.

Cox Media Group