Wildfire Preparedness Resources
- gvanffsc
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 11
Be Ready for Wildfires: Preparation and Evacuation Tips
Wildfires are unpredictable, but preparation can save lives and minimize damage. By taking proactive steps and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can help protect yourself, your family, and your community. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and always prioritize safety.
This guide will help you understand how to prepare for wildfires and what to do if evacuation becomes necessary. You'll find links throughout this post with additional resources. Be on the lookout for announcements about the next Public Green Valley Fire Safety Meeting.
Preparation: Before the Fire
Create a Defensible Space Around Your Home
Clear flammable materials like dry leaves, pine needles, and firewood stacks at least thirty feet away from your house.
Trim trees and shrubs to keep branches from overhanging your roof.
Use fire-resistant building materials whenever possible.
Harden your home to reduce wildfire threats.
Develop an Emergency Plan
Make an evacuation plan with multiple routes out of your community. Check out more info here from CAL FIRE.
Establish a communication plan with your family to ensure everyone knows how to stay in touch.
Identify a safe meeting location outside the danger zone.
More info here on preparing your your family / children / loved ones with special needs.
Make sure to have a plan in place for Animal / Livestock / Equestrian.
Assemble an Emergency Kit aka "Go Bag"
Include items like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents.
Don’t forget essentials for pets, such as food, water, and carriers.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications.
Keep an eye on weather conditions and wildfire risk levels in your area.
During the Fire: Evacuation and Safety
Follow Evacuation Orders Immediately
Do not delay—leave as soon as officials tell you to evacuate.
Wear protective clothing like long sleeves, pants, and sturdy shoes to shield against embers.
Navigate Safely
Use designated evacuation routes and avoid taking shortcuts through areas that might be affected by the fire.
Keep your car’s windows closed and the air vents set to recirculate to reduce smoke exposure.
Communicate Your Whereabouts
Let friends, family, or local authorities know your location and status.
If you have time, leave a note in a visible location indicating when you left and where you’re headed.
Stay Updated
Use a battery-powered radio or smartphone to monitor emergency broadcasts and updates.
After the Fire: Returning Safely
Wait for Official Clearance
Only return to your home after authorities have deemed it safe.
Inspect Your Property Cautiously
Check for structural damage, hot spots, or embers that could reignite.
Avoid using utilities until they have been inspected and restored by professionals.
Document Damage for Insurance Claims
Take photos or videos of the damage before beginning any cleanup efforts.
