Wildfires
Wildfires can move faster than you can run, and most homes that burn are ignited by flying embers, sometimes a mile or more ahead of the fire.
- Families
Prepare your home
- 0 to 5 feet from the house: no mulch, plants, firewood or anything that burns. Use gravel or pavers.
- 5 to 30 feet: keep plants spaced, trimmed and watered; remove dead vegetation; trim tree limbs away from the roof.
- 30 to 100 feet: reduce fuel, mow dry grass, space trees.
- Clean gutters and roofs of leaves and needles
- Cover vents with fine metal mesh to block embers
- Store firewood and propane tanks away from the house
Evacuate early
- Sign up for local emergency alerts and know at least two ways out of your neighborhood.
- Keep go-bags and important documents ready during fire season.
- Leave as soon as officials say to, or sooner if you feel unsafe. Don’t wait for a knock on the door.
- Back your car into the driveway, and keep the gas tank at least half full.
Smoke
Wildfire smoke can be harmful far from the fire. Check the air quality index, stay indoors with windows closed, use a HEPA air purifier, and wear a fitted N95 if you must be outside. See Wildfire Smoke.
Standards & references
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