Wildfire Preparedness 101: How to Stay Safe Before, During, and After a Wildfire
Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense. Whether you're near a forest, live in a rural community, or simply reside in an area with dry conditions, it's essential to be aware of wildfire risks. While they can happen anywhere, climate change has unfortunately made them more common.
Wildfires often start unexpectedly, sometimes sparked by extreme weather or human actions. They can quickly cause serious damage to homes, communities, and even entire regions.
However, being prepared means you can face these events with confidence. Knowledge is power—and planning ahead means protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
Here’s your guide to staying safe before, during, and after a wildfire:
Before the Fire: Preparation is Key
With Your Family:
Plan your escape routes: Identify clear evacuation routes, and arrange a safe place to stay outside the danger zone.
Set a family meeting place: Establish a spot where everyone can reconnect safely after evacuating.
Communicate clearly: Make sure everyone knows how and when to call 911, and understands what to do when they hear smoke alarms.
Practice fire drills: Rehearse your evacuation plan at least twice a year.
Prepare a grab-and-go kit: Keep an emergency kit ready and accessible for quick evacuation.
Protecting Your Home:
Install smoke alarms: Test alarms monthly, and replace batteries at least once a year.
Store documents safely: Keep important papers and sentimental items in a fire-resistant container that's easy to grab quickly.
Create a fire-resistant zone: Maintain at least 100 meters around your home clear of flammable materials, dead plants, leaves, and other debris.
Store flammable materials safely: Keep propane tanks, gasoline, and other flammable items in safety containers and far away from your home.
Build smart: Consider fire-resistant materials when making home repairs or renovations.
During the Fire: Stay Calm, Stay Safe
Your primary goal is to ensure your and your family's physical safety. However, if there's enough time before evacuating, here are some ways you can help firefighters:
Follow official instructions: Stay tuned for evacuation orders from local authorities.
Call 911 immediately: If you see fire approaching or become trapped, get help right away.
Close doors and windows: Shut all doors, windows, and vents to reduce smoke entry and ember damage.
Move furniture: Position flammable items, especially outdoor furniture, inside and away from windows and doors.
Increase visibility: Turn on outside lights and leave at least one interior light on per room to help firefighters see through smoke.
Protect yourself: Wear an N95 mask to shield your lungs from smoke particles.
Emergency actions: If clothing catches fire, remember—stop, drop, and roll!
Stay together: Keep your family and pets close and always carry your emergency kit.
Evacuate calmly: Drive at regular speeds, keep windows closed, and headlights on.
After the Fire: Recover and Stay Alert
When a wildfire passes, it's critical to remain cautious as conditions can still pose risks:
Stay informed: Regularly check news and official channels for updates on fire status and safety instructions.
Return only when safe: Wait until authorities announce it's safe before returning home.
Professional inspection: Have your home professionally assessed for safety hazards and damage.
Reach out to loved ones: Use text messages or social media to inform friends and family of your status.
Be cautious around home: Regularly check your property and surroundings for lingering embers or hot spots.
Water safety: Wait for official confirmation that your water is safe before drinking or using it.
Document damage: Photograph any damages to your property and immediately contact your insurance company.
Wildfires can be intimidating, but being well-prepared means you have control, clarity, and confidence during challenging times. Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe.
You’ve got this—and ReadyPack is here to support your preparedness journey!
