Evacuating during a wildfire can be a stressful experience, but experts say that with a little preparation and awareness, you can significantly increase your chances of staying safe.
Having a wildfire action plan, packing a “go bag,” and keeping situational awareness during evacuations are key steps to ensure safety. Jesse Torres, a battalion chief for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, emphasized that it’s vital not to wait around for an evacuation order.
Torres advises that people should leave early, well before evacuation orders are given. “The biggest thing is to get out early before the notifications come out. It’s so important to avoid the congestion,” Torres said.
This advice is especially relevant in areas with narrow roads or limited routes, where traffic jams can form quickly as everyone tries to leave at once. In these situations, getting out early could be the difference between being stuck in traffic or reaching safety.
One of the most critical actions people can take is to sign up for regional alert systems. Many communities, especially in areas like California, have systems in place to send push notifications through mobile phones or emails when an evacuation is necessary.
FEMA offers an app that provides real-time alerts directly to your mobile phone. At the same time, public safety agencies use the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System to push alerts through television, radio, and wireless devices. The NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards network broadcasts essential weather information, including warnings and forecasts. For areas with unreliable cell service, a battery- or crank-operated portable radio can be a vital tool for receiving emergency alerts.
It’s also important to have an emergency action plan. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends that every household create a plan that ensures everyone knows what to do and where to go in case of a wildfire.
A well-prepared emergency plan takes into account specific needs, such as family members who have medical conditions, special needs, or pets and livestock. The plan should include multiple evacuation routes, a pre-arranged meeting point, and a designated contact outside the affected area. These plans help ensure everyone is on the same page and can safely evacuate.
A crucial step in preparing for a wildfire evacuation is packing a “go bag.” This emergency supply kit should be prepared in advance and include items that may be needed for up to seven days. A go bag should contain important documents like passports, medical prescriptions, and extra car keys.
It should also have a first aid kit, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio with extra batteries, a three-day supply of food and water, and necessary supplies for pets. Torres recommends packing toiletries, clothes, and personal hygiene items in the bag, especially if you might end up staying at an evacuation center or with relatives. These small preparations can save you valuable time during an emergency.
If there is time before evacuating, it’s a good idea to protect your home. The U.S. Department of Agriculture suggests connecting hoses to outdoor water sources and filling containers like garbage cans, tubs, and pools with water to help firefighters. If you know how to do so safely, you should also shut off the gas and power to your home. Closing all windows, doors, and vents can help prevent embers from getting inside and sparking a fire.
Despite these preparations, sometimes conditions can make it impossible to wait for a go-bag or evacuate according to your plan. Torres advises that if you feel threatened by the approaching wildfire, don’t wait—leave immediately. Wildfires can move quickly, especially in high wind conditions.
Roads may become blocked with fallen power lines, abandoned vehicles, or debris, which can make it difficult to find an escape route. Torres says, “Just get out of those warning- and evacuation order zones. If you have family on the other side of the county, go to the other side of the county. Get out and get off the roadways as soon as possible.”
If you get trapped or can’t evacuate for any reason, the first thing to do is stay calm. Call 911 as soon as you can. If you’re not sure where you are, try to find a landmark or intersection and give your location to the dispatcher.
Knowing where you are and what street you’re on can help emergency responders find you more quickly. If you are stuck in the smoke and can’t see clearly, calling 911 is the first step to get help on the way.
In cases where people can safely walk to a better location, Torres advises staying on a main route. This gives a better chance of being spotted by passing cars or emergency responders. Remember, don’t delay in calling for help. The sooner you reach out to 911, the quicker help can arrive.
In summary, evacuating a wildfire area requires preparation, calm thinking, and early action. By signing up for alert systems, creating a solid emergency plan, packing a go bag, and protecting your home if possible, you can improve your chances of safely evacuating.
Most importantly, don’t wait for an official evacuation order—get out early to avoid congestion and potential dangers. And if you are trapped, staying calm and calling 911 can make a significant difference.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates.Make A Plan | Ready.gov
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