Wildfires

Wildfires can happen anywhere! Whether caused by humans or nature, wildfires can start and spread very quickly. If a wildfire started near your home or in an area you are traveling, would you know what to do?

BEFORE DISASTER STRIKES

• Make sure that any fire you are responsible for is extinguished when you
  leave that area (campfire, brush (leaf) fire, cigarette, etc.).
• Sign up for your community’s warning system.
• Know your community’s evacuation plans and find several ways to leave the area.
• Gather emergency supplies.
• Keep important documents in a fireproof (and waterproof), safe place.
• Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate, or make repairs.
• Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach any area of your property.
• Create a fire-resistant zone that is free of flammable materials for at least 30 feet from your home.
• Review insurance coverage to make sure it is enough to replace your property. (Fire and flood.)
• Have a full tank of fuel.
• Be ready to leave in a moment’s notice.

SAFETY DURING A WILDFIRE EMERGENCY

• Evacuate immediately if authorities tell you to do so.
• If trapped, call 911 and give your location.
• Listen to alerting systems for current emergency information and
  instructions.
• Use an N95 respirator mask to keep from breathing in harmful particles.
• If you are not ordered to evacuate but smoky conditions exist, stay inside in
  a safe location or go to a community building where smoke levels are
  lower.
• Never drive around a closure or barricade.

SAFETY AFTER A WILDFIRE EMERGENCY

• Listen to authorities to find out when it is safe to return, and whether water
  is safe to drink.
• Avoid hot ash, charred trees, smoldering debris, and live embers.
• Avoid damaged and downed utilities.
• Send text messages or use social media to reach out to family and friends.
• Make calls only in emergencies.
• Document property damage with photographs.
• Be aware. Wildfires change landscape and ground conditions, which can
  lead to increased risk of flooding.

This is a summary of wildfire safety. For more detailed information, please visit: https://www.ready.gov/wildfires