WILDFIRES

What do I do if I live in an area where there may be a wildfire?

The California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection provides the following information:

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What do I do BEFORE a wildland fire?

• Adhere to all local fire and building codes and weed abatement ordinances.
• Use approved fire resistant materials when building, renovating or retrofitting structures. (This is extremely important for roofing materials).
• Install electrical lines underground if possible.
• Be sure your house numbers show clearly from the street, both day and night.
• Create defensible space - separate your home from flammable vegetation and materials (minimum 30' - PRC 4291).
• Keep all trees and shrub limbs trimmed so they do not come into contact with electrical wires or overhang your chimney. (Do not trim around live powerlines yourself, call a professional.)
• Prune all lower branches 8 feet above the ground.
• Keep trees next to buildings free of dead or dying branches.
• Keep roof surfaces clear of pine needles, leaves and debris at all times.
• Install spark arresters for each chimney (PRC 4291).
• Clean chimneys and check and maintain spark arresters twice a year.
• Keep rain gutters clear of debris at all times.
• Store combustible or flammable materials in approved containers.
• Stack firewood away from your home and other buildings. (Keep area clear around your piles.)
• Store all important papers in a fireproof container or keep copies at another location.
• Make evacuation plans with family members. Include several options with an outside meeting place and contact person. Practice regularly.
• Keep battery operated radios and flashlights with additional fresh batteries on hand.

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What do I do DURING a wildland fire?

• Turn on a battery-operated radio to get latest emergency information.
• If you have a ladder, prop it against the house so you and firefighters have access to roof.
• If hoses and adequate water are available set them up. Fill buckets with water.
• Remove combustible materials from the area surrounding your house. (Lawn chairs, tables, etc.)
• Turn a light on in each room for visibility in case of smoke.
• Close all doors and windows, but do not lock them.
• Open or take down flammable drape and curtains.
• Close all Venetian blinds and non-flammable window coverings.
• Move upholstered furniture away from windows and sliding glass doors.
• Be ready to evacuate all family members and pets when requested to do so.
• Turn off air conditioning/air circulation systems.
• Detach electrical garage doors. Back in your car and leave the keys in the ignition.
• Secure your pets if possible.

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What do I do AFTER a wildland fire?

• Check with fire officials before attempting to return to your home.
• Use caution when re-entering a burned area, flare-ups can occur.
• Check grounds for "hot spots" - smoldering stumps and vegetation. Use your buckets of water.
• Check the roof and exterior areas for sparks and embers.
• Check the attic and throughout the house for hidden burning sparks and embers.
• Continue to check for problem areas for several days.
• Contact 9-1-1 if any danger is perceived.
• If burning outside your home was extensive, watch for soil erosion.
• Consult local experts on the best way to restore and re-plant your land with fire safe landscaping.

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Where can I get more information?

The California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection provides additional information on what to do in case of an evacuation on how to protect your home (pdf) and how to protect your livestock (pdf), plus information on the best ways to evacuate your animals (pdf).

2008 Wildfire Disaster Planning Documents
Disaster Preparedness for Livestock (pdf)
Red Cross - Preparing for Disaster (pdf)
TC Wildland Fire Evacuation Operations (pdf)
What Do I Do With My Horse? (pdf)
Wildland Fire Evacuation Preparedness (pdf)