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Wildfires have periodically burned through grasslands, native brush, hills, canyons, and valleys for thousands of years. Many homes and communities were built in such areas with little thought of this fire cycle. If you live in such an environment, your home, belongings, and family are at risk. Are you prepared?
If you invest a little time in preparing
now, should evacuation become a reality,
you will be ready to react in an effective,
rational, and safe manner. It makes sense
to be prepared, rather than reacting in panic.
A little time now could very well save you
much emotional and economic pain; and most
of all, it could prevent your loved ones
from being injured or worse.
A. READY - Long before fire threatens, plan your evacuation.
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B. SET - When evacuation seems likely, put your plan
into action.
Take a deep breath, and remember that your have planned will. Also remember, that lives always take priority over property.
Face your car out toward the street in the driveway, so you have the best visibility when you have to leave.
Load your "Important Stuff" and Emergency Supply Kit into the car. Load pets at the last minute when all the family members are in the car and ready to leave.
and if there is time . . .
Be sure all windows and doors are closed.
Close metal window blinds.
Remove light curtains and other thin combustibles from windows.
Cluster lawn furniture and other things that might snag firefighters’ hoselines.
Leave exterior lights on. It helps firefighters find your home in the smoke.
Do not leave garden sprinklers on - they can waste critical water pressure.
Lock up your house.
C. GO- Get a move on!
Do not wait to be told to evacuate. Authorities may not have time to order an evacuation. If you feel threatened, leave on your own initiative.
Obey orders of law enforcement and fire officers. They understand the risk and are acting on current fire information.
Drive with your headlights on for visibility and safety.
Drive calmly and with special attention to fire trucks. They are not as maneuverable as your car.
Do not block the access roadways for fire trucks.
If fire overtakes you, you are far safer in the car than out.
Check with your child’s school on their Student Release policy. They should have plans to protect children in place or to bus them to safer locations. To avoid mass congestion during evacuation, pickup should be arranged after the crises passes.
DO NOT call 9-1-1 for non-emergencies.
Do not attempt to re-enter the fire area until officials allow it.
Check-in at an Emergency Center established by the Red Cross. Law enforcement officials can direct you. Whether you stay there or not, your checking in will help others know you are safe.
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When fire threatens, you will not have time to shop or search for supplies. Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit that includes items you will need if you have to evacuate. Store them in easy-to-carry containers such as back-packs, plastic crates, etc.
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This information was provided courtesy of FireSafe San Diego County. The information was developed as a collaborative effort of FireSafe San Diego County, San Diego County Sheriff and Chiefs of Police, and the Burn Institute of San Diego. The Committee for Firesafe Dwellings is a member of the Public Education Committee of FireSafe San Diego County.
DISCLAIMER: The Committee for Firesafe Dwellings assumes no liability for the use or misuse of this information, which is intended to provide fire safety and emergency guidelines for homeowners.