How to Stay Safe in a Wildfire

Wildfires are scary! They can spread super fast and put lives and homes in danger. That’s why it's really important to know how to stay safe. This guide will give you the basics on getting ready, plus tips for staying safe if one happens.

What Makes Wildfires a Big Deal?

Wildfires, sometimes called bushfires, are basically fires that get out of control in forests and fields. They can start from things like lightning or, sadly, from people not being careful with campfires or cigarettes.

How bad a wildfire gets depends on a few things:

The Weather: Think hot, dry, and windy – that's wildfire weather.
What's Around to Burn: Lots of dry trees, bushes, and grass? That's fuel for the fire.
The Land: Steep hills can make a fire spread faster.

Knowing these things helps you figure out your risk and get ready.

Get Ready Now: Your Best Defense

Being prepared is the best way to stay safe from wildfires. Do these things before a fire starts to give yourself a better chance.

1. Create a Safe Zone Around Your Home

This means clearing away stuff that can burn near your house. It slows down the fire and gives firefighters a place to work. Here’s how:

Right Next to Your House (30 feet): Get rid of dry leaves, pine needles, dead branches – anything that burns easily. Keep your grass short and trees trimmed.
A Little Further Out (30-100 feet): Spread out trees and bushes so they're not too close together. Cut away dead stuff.
Even Further Out (100-200 feet): Keep the area tidy and don't let things get too overgrown.

2. Make a Getaway Plan

This is how you’ll get out of your house safely if a wildfire comes. It should include:

More Than One Way Out: Have a couple of routes in mind in case one is blocked.
A Meeting Spot: Pick a place far away where your family can meet up.
How to Talk to Each Other: Figure out how you'll communicate if you get separated.
Practice! Run through your plan so everyone knows what to do.

3. Pack a Go-Bag

This is a kit with all the stuff you'll need during and after the fire. Here's what to put in it:

Water: A gallon per person per day for a few days.
Food: Stuff that won't spoil, like canned goods and energy bars.
First-Aid Kit: Bandages, wipes, pain relievers, and your meds.
Flashlight & Batteries: Don't forget extra batteries!
Radio: One that runs on batteries or a hand crank for emergency info.
Dust Mask: To help you breathe in smoky air.
Important Papers: Copies of IDs, insurance, and medical records.
Cash: Small bills in case the power is out.
Phone & Charger: Keep your phone charged, and bring a portable charger.
Clothes & Blankets: To stay warm.

4. Stay Up-to-Date

Knowing what's going on is key. Watch the news, check the weather, and listen to official alerts. Sign up for wildfire alerts so you get the info fast.

Wildfire is Here: What To Do Now

If a wildfire is close to your home, you need to act fast to protect yourself and your family.

1. Get Out When Told

If the authorities tell you to evacuate, go now! Don't wait. Don't try to pack. Your life is what matters.

2. Prep Your House Before You Leave

Take these steps as you leave:

Close Doors and Windows: This keeps embers out.
Move Flammable Stuff: Take patio furniture, doormats, and firewood away from the house.
Turn Off Gas: Turn off the gas and propane.
Leave Lights On: So firefighters can see your house.
Tell Your Neighbors: Make sure they know you're leaving and if they need help.

3. Driving To Safety

Follow these tips if evacuating by car:

Stay Calm: Don't panic while driving.
Follow the Plan: Use the designated evacuation routes and obey traffic laws.
Keep Windows Closed: Keeps smoke out.
Use Headlights: So others can see you in the smoke.
Listen to the Radio: For updates on the fire and where to go.

4. Stuck? Shelter in Place

If you can't evacuate, here's what to do:

Go Inside: Get inside the strongest building you can find.
Seal It Up: Close windows and doors and use tape or wet towels to seal any gaps.
Fill Water: Fill tubs and sinks with water in case you need to put out small fires.
Away From Walls: Stay away from outside walls and windows.
Keep Watching: Monitor the situation and be ready to move if you need to.

Back Home After the Fire: Be Careful!

Going back home after a wildfire can be dangerous. Keep these things in mind:

1. Wait for the All-Clear

Don't go home until the authorities say it's safe. There might be downed power lines, damage to buildings, and unstable ground.

2. Check for Damage

When you can go back, look carefully for damage. Check for cracks in walls or a leaning foundation. Watch out for hazards like downed power lines and trees that could fall.

3. Wear Protective Gear

Wear a hard hat, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris and ash.

4. Take Photos for Insurance

Take pictures and videos of the damage before you start cleaning up. This will help with your insurance claim.

5. Be Careful of Ash

Ash can be dangerous. Don't breathe it in, and wear protective clothing when handling debris.

More Wildfire Safety Tips

Be Careful with Fire: When camping, clear away brush around campfires and never leave a fire unattended.
Butts Out: Put cigarettes out all the way in an ashtray.
Car Care: Keep your car in good shape so it doesn't spark and start a fire.
Report Fires: If you see a wildfire, call 911 right away!

We're All In This Together

Wildfire safety is everyone's job. Here's how communities can help:

Have Meetings: Discuss wildfire risks and how to prepare.
Make a Community Plan: So everyone knows what to do if there's a fire.
Join Firewise: This program helps communities reduce wildfire risks.

Bottom Line

Knowing how to stay safe from wildfires takes some work. You need to get ready, pay attention, and act quickly. By getting your home ready, making a plan, and staying informed, you can give yourself and your family a much better chance. Wildfires are serious, but with the right steps, you can stay safe. Stay prepared!

These wildfire safety tips are for everyone who lives in or visits areas where wildfires can happen. Stay informed, stay ready, and stay safe!