Policy Text
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office is committed to work in partnership with our community to enhance the safety, security, and quality of life for the
residents and visitors of Kern County through professional public safety services.
Evacuation Authority and Field Operations
Purpose
This training bulletin provides standardized guidance for deputies, supervisors, and
command staff regarding the Kern County Sheriff’s Office responsibilities and best
practices when conducting evacuations during emergencies. It outlines the Sheriff’s legal
authority, integrates applicable state and local protocols—including those from Cal
OES—and details coordination procedures with Fire and Emergency Services through
the Incident Command System (ICS).
Legal Authority
Under California Penal Code § 409.5, peace officers, including sheriffs and their deputies,
are legally authorized to close areas and issue evacuation orders when a threat to public
safety exists due to disast