Get Ready for Wildfires

Homes in forested areas face the danger of wildfires, which can spread quickly and change direction rapidly.

Before an Wildfire
  • Create a family communications plan in case you’re separated from your family.
  • Make a Ready kit with supplies for three days and prepare a portable Ready kit in case you have to evacuate.
  • Plan ahead for your pets. Most shelters cannot accept pets due to health reasons.
  • Plan several escape routes away from your home, by car and by foot.
  • Be aware of recent weather. A long period without rain increases the risk of wildfire.
  • Keep leaves and needles off your roof and deck, and clean gutters regularly.
  • Trim overhanging branches near structures. Prune large tree branches within 15 ft. from ground.
  • Remove debris from under decks and porches.
  • Clear combustible material within 20 feet of any structure.
  • Install spark arrestors in chimneys and stovepipes.
  • Identify and maintain an adequate outside water source, such as a pool or small pond.
  • Have a garden hose that is long enough to reach any area of the home
  • Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tools: rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket and shovel.
  • Visit www.firewise.org for more information on how to prepare your home for a wildfire.
During a Wildfire
  • Follow instructions of local officials. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately and monitor local media and NOAA Weather Radio for the latest updates.
  • Close doors and windows, but don’t lock them.
  • Open or take down flammable curtains and close blinds and other non-flammable window coverings.
  • Move flammable furniture into the center of the residence. Turn off air conditioning and close vents.
  • Fill any pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, tubs or other large containers with water.
  • Prop a ladder against the house for easy access to the roof.
  • Disconnect any automatic garage door openers so that doors can still be opened by hand if the power goes out. Close all garage doors.
  • Turn on outside lights and leave a light on in every room. This makes your house more visible in the event of heavy smoke.