Wildfires are unpredictable and spread rapidly, often leaving little time to react. Proper preparation can save lives and protect property, ensuring that you and your family can evacuate quickly and safely. One of the most important steps in wildfire preparedness is assembling a go-bag with essential supplies and knowing evacuation routes ahead of time.

Why Preparation is Essential

Wildfires move quickly, and in some cases, you may only have minutes to leave. Waiting until the last moment to gather supplies or plan an escape route can put lives at risk. A well-prepared household can leave swiftly without panic, ensuring that essential belongings and family members—including pets—are safely accounted for. Taking the time now to prepare will help you act confidently in an emergency.

Assembling a Wildfire "Go-Bag"

A go-bag is an emergency kit filled with supplies you will need if you must evacuate. When wildfires strike, there is no time to pack. Having your bag ready in advance ensures that you have everything necessary to survive for at least 72 hours.

Essentials for Survival

In an emergency, basic survival needs must be covered. Water, food, and first aid supplies should be at the top of your list. Fires can disrupt power and water sources, so it is crucial to bring enough supplies to stay self-sufficient.

Important Documents

Losing important documents in a wildfire can create complications later, from filing insurance claims to proving your identity. Keeping copies of personal, financial, and property records in your go-bag ensures you have access to vital information even if your home is damaged.

Communication and Navigation

During a wildfire, cell towers may go down, and power outages can make it difficult to stay updated. Reliable communication tools like a battery-powered radio and a paper map will help you receive emergency alerts and find safe routes to evacuation centers.

Clothing and Personal Items

Wildfires create intense heat and thick smoke. Wearing protective clothing can prevent burns and limit smoke inhalation. Packing long-sleeved shirts, sturdy shoes, and N95 masks will help shield you from hazardous conditions while evacuating.

Items for Pets (If Applicable)

Pets rely on you for their safety, so make sure you have a plan for them too. Wildfire evacuations can be chaotic, and some shelters may not accept animals. Having food, water, and a pet carrier ready will make evacuation smoother for both you and your furry companions.

Extra Supplies for Families with Children

Children may have different needs during an emergency, so plan accordingly. Infants and toddlers require diapers, formula, and comfort items. Packing a favorite stuffed toy or blanket can help ease anxiety in stressful situations.

Planning and Knowing Evacuation Routes

Having a go-bag is only part of the equation—you also need to know how to leave safely. Wildfires can block roads and cause unexpected detours, making it critical to plan multiple evacuation routes.

Identify Multiple Evacuation Routes

When a wildfire threatens your area, there is no guarantee that your usual route will be open. Learning multiple escape paths and practicing them ahead of time will prevent confusion and delays during an actual emergency.

Practice Your Evacuation Plan

Knowing what to do before an evacuation order is issued can save valuable time. Conducting practice drills with your family ensures everyone understands their role and knows where to go when it is time to leave.

Stay Informed

Staying updated on fire conditions is essential for making the right decisions. Many emergency services offer text alerts, weather updates, and real-time evacuation notices. Signing up for these alerts can give you the warning needed to leave before conditions worsen.

Preparing Your Home Before Evacuating

While your main focus should be getting out safely, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire damage to your home. These precautions can slow the spread of flames and give firefighters a better chance to protect your property.

Create Defensible Space

Fires spread quickly through dry vegetation. Keeping trees, shrubs, and other flammable materials away from your home can reduce the risk of embers igniting nearby structures. Clearing gutters and roofs of debris also prevents stray embers from starting a fire on your property.

Fireproof Your Home Before Leaving

Before evacuating, it is important to take last-minute steps to protect your house. Closing windows and doors, turning off gas, and removing flammable outdoor items can make a significant difference in how much damage your home sustains.

Notify Someone of Your Evacuation Status

If you must leave, make sure someone outside of the fire zone knows where you are going. Leaving a note at home or sending a quick message to a friend or family member can help emergency responders track evacuations.

What to Do During Evacuation

Once an evacuation order is issued, there is no time to waste. Fires can change direction suddenly, and roads may become congested. Acting quickly and following emergency guidelines will keep you and your family safe.

• Evacuate as soon as possible. Fires can move fast, and delaying your departure increases the risk of getting trapped.
• Wear protective clothing. Covering your skin with long sleeves and pants can protect against burns and flying embers.
• Follow designated evacuation routes. Roads may be blocked, so it is crucial to follow official routes provided by emergency services.
• Stay calm and focused. Emergencies can be overwhelming, but keeping a clear head ensures you make safe decisions.

Returning Home After a Wildfire

Once the fire has passed, you may be eager to return home, but safety should be your first priority. Even after flames are extinguished, hazards like unstable structures, hidden embers, and poor air quality can pose risks.

Check for Hazards

Before entering your home, inspect the area for lingering dangers. Smoldering embers, weakened walls, and gas leaks can create deadly conditions. Approach cautiously and contact authorities if you notice anything unsafe.

Contact Your Insurance Company

If your home has been damaged, documenting everything is crucial for insurance claims. Taking photos and keeping records of lost belongings will make the claims process smoother.

Be Prepared for a Long Recovery

Recovering from a wildfire takes time. Depending on the extent of the damage, restoring utilities and rebuilding may take weeks or months. Having a post-disaster plan in place will help you navigate the challenges ahead.