Wildfire Prepareness

Protection from Nature's Flames

Wildfires are fast-moving, intense blazes that can engulf homes, forests, and entire communities in a matter of hours. They’re especially hazardous because they can happen in an instant, spreading quickly due to high winds and dry conditions. Wildfires are not seasonal, making them dangerous due to their unpredictability.

Here’s what you need to know to prepare for, stay safe during, and recover from wildfires.

Before the Wildfire

Preparing to Protect What Matters Most

Taking steps to prepare before a wildfire strikes can help minimize damage to your home and property.

Create a Defensible Space

Clean Up Your Yard

Remove dead plants, dry leaves, and other flammable materials from around your home. Trim trees and shrubs, and keep grass mowed short to create a buffer zone that can slow the spread of a wildfire.

Use Fire-Resistant Landscaping

Plant fire-resistant shrubs and trees and use non-flammable materials like gravel or stone around your property to reduce the risk of fire spreading to your home.

Install Fire-Resistant Roofing and Siding

Consider using fire-resistant materials like metal, tile, or Class A asphalt shingles for your roof. Fire-resistant siding can also add an extra layer of protection.

Seal Vents and Gaps

Cover exterior vents and seal gaps in eaves, soffits, and roofs with mesh screens to prevent embers from entering your home.

Use Fire-Resistant Windows and Doors

Install dual-pane, tempered glass windows, and ensure that doors are solid and fit tightly.

Prepare for an Emergency

Prepare Supplies

Prepare a bag with essential items like clothing, medications, water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, important documents, and personal items that you can grab quickly if you need to evacuate. Keep emergency supplies and a change of clothes in your car so you can quickly leave.

Create a Home Inventory

Document your home and items within it so you won’t need to remember off the top of your head in case you need to file a claim. This can easily be done with a smartphone or video camera.

Know Your Policy

Review your home insurance policy annually to make sure your coverage needs haven’t changed. Keep your policy and other critical papers in a waterproof and portable container, so you can quickly grab them on the go.

Stay Informed

Monitor Fire Alerts

Sign up for local fire alerts and keep a battery-powered radio handy to stay updated on wildfire conditions in your area. If you see smoke and have not heard a warning announced, contact authorities immediately.

Create a Family Evacuation Plan

Plan multiple evacuation routes in case roads are blocked by the fire. Share this plan with your family so everyone knows where to go. Choose a safe location outside the fire zone where your family can reunite if you get separated.

Know Your Risk

Understand the wildfire risk in your area and stay prepared in case of an emergency.

During the Wildfire

Staying Safe When the Flames Approach

The National Weather Service will issue a Fire Weather Watch if wildfire conditions are possible over the next 12 to 72 hours. When a wildfire threatens your area, your safety is the top priority. 

Evacuate Immediately

Use Your Evacuation Route

If authorities issue evacuation orders, leave immediately. Know your evacuation routes in advance and keep them accessible.

Gather Essentials

Keep your emergency kit ready, including important documents, medications, and personal items. Have a "go-bag" packed for each family member, including pets.

Clear Debris

If time allows, move wood piles, leaves and anything that will burn easily at least 30 feet away from your home.

Take Shelter Indoors

Stay Indoors

If a wildfire is approaching and you have not evacuated, stay inside your home to avoid smoke inhalation and exposure to flames. Close all windows and doors to minimize smoke and heat from entering.

Bring Pets Inside

Ensure your pets are safe indoors. Include them in your plans and make sure they are in a secure area where they feel comfortable.

Seal Off Areas

Use wet towels or rags to seal gaps around doors and windows to further reduce smoke infiltration.

Protect Yourself

Avoid Smoke Exposure

If you can, stay in a room with fewer windows and doors. The center of your home, away from outside walls, is usually safer.

Stay Informed

Keep a battery-powered radio or smartphone handy to monitor local emergency broadcasts and updates on the fire's status and evacuation orders.

Wear Protective Gear

If you must go outside, wear long sleeves, pants, and a mask to protect against ash and smoke. Goggles can help shield your eyes from irritants.