Wildfire Safety Tips

Wildfire Safety Tips

Staying Safe When a Wildfire Occurs

There are over 70,000 wildfires each year throughout the United States, burning miles of land and causing devastating damage.1 These tips can help you stay safe and keep your property protected in case of wildfire.
Wildfire Safety Tips

How Do Wildfires Start?

Wildfires start two ways, either by a natural occurrence (like a lightning strike), or by a human-made spark. In fact, around 85% of wildland fires in the U.S. are caused by humans, ranging from accidents like unwatched campfires to intentional acts of arson or carelessly discarded cigarettes.2

When and Where Do Wildfires Occur?

Wildfires can happen any time of year, but they’re most common during the summer and fall. They typically take place in forests, rangelands or grasslands throughout the western U.S.3

What Are Wildfire Watches and Warnings?

Fire Weather Watch

Be prepared. Weather forecasts suggest conditions that could lead to wildfire, such as drought and heavy winds.

Wildfire Red Flag Warning

Be alert. One step above a watch, Red Flag Warnings are issued when conditions for a wildfire are imminent or already ongoing.

Extreme Fire Behavior

Take action. A current wildfire can quickly grow out of control. Listen to your local weather guidance for important instruction to stay safe.4

What To Do When Facing a Wildfire

Wildfires can move very fast and unexpectedly change direction. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place before a wildfire – especially if you live in an area prone to these devastating disasters.
Have a plan in place before wildfires begin.
 
Knowing what to do during a wildfire is important for you and your family’s safety.
 
  • Close all windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering your home.
  • Try to stay as far from the wildfire as possible by sheltering in rooms at the opposite end of where the smoke is approaching and avoiding the perimeter walls.
  • Listen to emergency alerts and adhere to their instructions.
  • Put aside enough drinkable water for everyone in your home.
  • Keep interior air as fresh as possible with an air purifier or by running your A/C on re-circulate.
  • Check the air quality in your area and stay indoors until it’s clear.
  • If you must go outside, wear an N95 mask to filter out harmful ash and pollutants.5
  • Do not drive unless you’re ordered to evacuate and have your emergency bag ready to go if needed.
  • Make sure your property is as protected as possible by:
    • Moving furniture or flammable materials, including gas grills, away from your home. 
    • Covering vents, windows and doors with at least ½ inch thick fire-resistant plywood. 
    • Attaching hoses to active spigots in case you need to extinguish embers or flames. 
    • Putting sprinklers on your roof to extinguish embers if you can do it safely. 
    • Placing water-filled buckets around your home to extinguish embers or flames.
    • Removing fabric curtains from windows. 
    • Replacing or cleaning air filter screens, which can reduce smoke. 
    • Filling tubs and sinks with water for cleaning and washing.
 
American Red Cross wildfire evacuation video

Knowing When and How To Evacuate From Wildfires

Having an exit plan in place can make all the difference if you end up in the path of a wildfire. This video from the American Red Cross includes the information you need on how to safely and quickly escape from a wildfire.
 

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1 “Climate Change Indicators: Wildfires,” United States Environmental Protection Agency.
 
2 “Wildfire Causes and Evaluations,” National Park Service.
 
3 “Wildfire,” U.S. Department of Agriculture.
 
4 “Understanding Wildfire Warnings, Watches and Behavior,” National Weather Service.
 
5 “Protecting Workers and the Public from Wildfire Smoke,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.