Living near hillsides or wooded areas brings natural beauty—and a higher risk of wildfires. In dry conditions, wildfires can start fast and spread even faster, threatening homes and lives. The good news? With the right preparation, you can reduce your risk.
Before a Wildfire
Start by building an emergency kit and making a family plan:
- Visit our Build a Kit section on this website for what to include in your emergency kit depending on where you are.
- Learn how to make a plan in our Evacuation Planning section.
Prepare your home by using fire-resistant materials, clearing brush, and creating a safety zone around your property. Clean gutters, trim trees, and remove anything flammable near the house, like firewood stacks or patio furniture.
Make sure your address is clearly visible, driveways are accessible for emergency vehicles, and smoke alarms are working. Teach your family how to use a fire extinguisher and talk to neighbors about working together in case of an emergency.
During a Wildfire
If authorities tell you to evacuate, leave immediately and take your emergency kit with you. Don't wait.
If you're not under evacuation orders yet, you can still take steps to prepare:
- Close windows, doors, and vents to keep embers out.
- Move flammable furniture and curtains away from windows.
- Gather pets, medications, important documents, and irreplaceable items so they’re ready to go.
- Wear protective clothing like long sleeves, pants, and sturdy shoes.
- Keep your car parked facing outward, with a full tank and emergency supplies packed.
If you or someone in your household needs extra time to evacuate – like older adults, young children, or individuals with mobility or sensory challenges – it’s a good idea to leave early, even if evacuation orders haven’t been issued yet.
And if at any point you feel unsafe, don’t wait for an official order. Trust your instincts and leave.
Never assume someone else has reported a fire. If you see smoke or flames, call 911 immediately.
After a Wildfire
If you evacuated, wait until officials say it’s safe to return home. Once back, check for sparks, embers, and hidden hot spots. Be careful walking around damaged areas and avoid downed power lines.
Don’t use food, water, or supplies that may have been exposed to heat or smoke. Clean up carefully: Wetting ash and wearing protective gear can help you stay safe during cleanup.
Stay Alert After the Fire
Even after the flames are gone, risk remains. Wildfires leave hillsides barren, increasing the chance of flash floods and mudslides–especially during heavy rain. This risk can last for years until vegetation regrows. Stay informed, especially during storms, and be ready to act if flooding is expected.
