Committee hears bill to standardize evacuation messaging with Ready, Set, Go system

Senator Jesse Bjorkman introduced Senate Bill 192 on May 15, 2025, saying the bill was requested by emergency managers to clarify a uniform, statewide evacuation messaging standard so Alaskans understand when evacuation may be necessary.

Brenda Allberg, emergency manager for the Kenai Peninsula Borough, presented the Ready, Set, Go system used there and on behalf of the Alaska Emergency Managers Association. Allberg described a three-level system: Ready (level 1, green) for preparedness; Set (level 2, yellow) advising that imminent danger is likely and some residents should consider leaving early; and Go (level 3, red) asking people to evacuate. "The level 2 'get set' ... gives them the opportunity to leave during this time, particularly for those individuals who have mobility issues or may have livestock or large recreational vehicles," Allberg said.

Allberg explained the value of standardized operational maps and color conventions to avoid confusion during multi-jurisdiction incidents and described how unified mapping also supports phased reentry decisions. She said the Kenai Peninsula Borough has shared Ready, Set, Go materials with five other jurisdictions and provided a public hub (info.kpb.us) for resources.

Michelle Weston, fire chief with Girdwood Fire and Rescue and liaison officer with the Alaska Incident Management Team, testified in support, citing experience coordinating evacuations across multiple states and provinces and saying a single clear system is beneficial for residents and visitors.

The hearing included invited expert presentation and public testimony online; no committee motion or vote on SB 192 is recorded in this hearing transcript. Sponsors said the bill would standardize messaging and mapping to improve public comprehension and interagency coordination during wildfires and other hazards.