Chelan County Emergency Management outlines evacuation procedures amidst fire threats

On April 11, 2025, Leavenworth City hosted a Wildfire Preparedness Workshop aimed at equipping residents with essential information regarding evacuation protocols and emergency management during wildfire events. The meeting featured Rich Magnuson from Chelan County Emergency Management, who outlined the county's response strategies and the importance of community preparedness.

Magnuson emphasized the three levels of evacuation: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Level 1 serves as an advisory, alerting residents to a fire in the vicinity and encouraging them to stay informed through local media and social platforms. Level 2 indicates a more imminent threat, prompting residents to begin packing and preparing for potential evacuation. Finally, Level 3 is a mandatory evacuation order, signaling that the fire poses a direct threat to the area, and residents must leave for their safety.

The workshop highlighted the county's reliance on a public alerting system, Everbridge, which notifies residents within a designated area through various channels, including cell phones and landlines. Magnuson noted the importance of keeping GPS location services enabled on mobile devices to ensure timely alerts. Additionally, door-to-door notifications will complement digital alerts to reach those without access to technology.

Sheltering plans were also discussed, with the Red Cross set to establish shelters for evacuees, including provisions for pets. The Fairgrounds in nearby Cashmere is typically designated as a shelter location. Magnuson reassured attendees that law enforcement would manage access to evacuated areas, allowing only residents and property owners to return, thereby safeguarding properties from potential looting.

The workshop underscored the critical role of community awareness and preparedness in mitigating the impacts of wildfires. As fire seasons become increasingly severe, the information shared at this meeting is vital for ensuring the safety and resilience of Leavenworth residents. Moving forward, the community is encouraged to stay informed and proactive in their emergency planning efforts.