LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Sheriff’s Office said it has updated the language it will use in notifying the community about evacuations and sheltering in case of wildland fires and other disasters.

Over the last few years, Lake County and many other jurisdictions have issued evacuation notices and warning to communities as a result of various emergencies.

The terminology used during these situations varied between agencies and jurisdictions, which resulted in confusion on occasion, according to Lt. Corey Paulich.

On March 4, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services convened a working group which has recommended a set of standardized terms for use in evacuation or shelter in place situations, Paulich said.

As the state enters what is anticipated to be another busy fire season, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Emergency Services will use the following standardized recommended terminology in our messaging.

The terminology is as follows:

Evacuation order: This terminology will be used when there is an immediate threat to life. This order is given pursuant to Penal Code Section 409.5, and is lawfully enforceable. When this terminology is used, you are legally required to leave the affected area and your life is in danger.

Evacuation warning: This terminology is used when there is a potential threat to life and/or property. Upon receipt of this notification, those with a need for additional time to evacuate are encouraged to do so. This is also the time for making last minute preparations to evacuate the area in the event an evacuation order is given.

Shelter in place: This terminology will be used in situations where evacuation is not needed. A shelter in place message may include direction for people to go indoors, shut and lock their doors and windows, and to prepare to self-sustain until further notice and/or contacted by emergency personnel for additional direction.

Paulich said use of this standardized terminology will result in understanding between various responding agencies and jurisdictions during mutual aid calls, and will result in consistent messaging for our communities.

As the community proceeds into what has all the appearances of being another busy fire season, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the Office of Emergency Services encourage all residents to evaluate their readiness. Being prepared in advance will help us help you during a disaster.