N95 masks for smoke, goggles, long-sleeved cotton clothing, important documents, medications, water, flashlight, battery-powered radio, pet supplies, photos/inventory of belongings for insurance.
🏠 Home Hardening
Use fire-resistant roofing and siding materials. Screen vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh. Install dual-pane or tempered glass windows. Keep a garden hose connected and ready. Maintain a 30-foot defensible space zone.
During a Wildfire
✓ Do
Evacuate immediately when ordered
Close all windows and doors
Turn on all lights for visibility
Drive slowly with headlights on
✗ Don't
Wait until you see flames to leave
Try to fight a wildfire yourself
Drive through heavy smoke
Leave pets or animals behind
🚗 Evacuation Driving
Drive slowly with headlights and hazard lights on. Roll up windows and close air vents. If trapped in your car, park away from vegetation, close windows, cover yourself with a blanket, and call 911.
🏠 If Trapped at Home
Stay inside and away from outside walls and windows. Close all doors but leave them unlocked. Fill sinks and tubs with water. Keep lights on so firefighters can see your house through smoke. Call 911 and report your location.
After a Wildfire
✓ Do
Wait for the area to be declared safe
Watch for hot spots and smoldering areas
Document all damage with photos
Wear N95 mask for smoke and ash
✗ Don't
Enter burned areas until cleared
Touch ash without protection
Let children play in ash
Use damaged water supply
🏚️ Returning Home
Check the roof and exterior for embers and hot spots. Check inside for smoke or fire damage. Test the water supply before using. Discard any food exposed to heat, smoke, or soot. Watch for hazard trees that may fall.
😷 Ash & Air Quality
Wildfire ash contains harmful chemicals. Wear N95 masks, gloves, and long sleeves during cleanup. Wet down ash before sweeping to prevent it from becoming airborne. Keep children and pets away from ash. Monitor air quality index before outdoor activities.