Most people will find evacuating during a wildfire an overwhelming experience, but experts say proper preparation and awareness can significantly enhance safety.
Jesse Torres, a battalion chief with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), stresses the importance of planning ahead, packing an emergency "go bag," and staying alert during evacuations.
The most crucial advice, Torres says, is to leave early—before an official evacuation order is issued.
He said: "The biggest thing is to get out early, before the notifications come out. It's so important to avoid the congestion."
Key safety tips for wildfire evacuations:
Sign Up for Alert Systems
Many regions, particularly in California, have local alert systems that provide real-time notifications via phone or email.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers an app with live alerts, and public safety agencies use the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System to send messages through television, radio, and wireless devices.
A portable battery- or crank-operated radio is another valuable tool for receiving emergency information, especially in areas with unreliable cellular service.
Create an Emergency Action Plan
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends that households develop personalized emergency plans. These plans should include:
- A designated meeting point outside the danger zone
- Multiple escape routes
- Arrangements for family members with medical needs or disabilities
- Provisions for pets and livestock
- A communication strategy with a contact outside the area
Pack a 'Go Bag'
A pre-packed emergency kit, or "go bag," can save critical time when evacuation is necessary. Torres advises that a go bag should include:
- A map with at least two evacuation routes
- Prescriptions and medical supplies
- Extra car keys, cash, and credit cards
- A basic first-aid kit
- A flashlight, batteries, and a battery-powered radio
- Copies of important documents, like passports
- A three-day supply of food and water per person
- Supplies for pets
- N95 masks and extra phone chargers
"Plan like you're going on a trip for seven days," Torres said. "You might end up in an evacuation center, or you might end up with family, so be prepared."
Protect Your Home, If Possible
If there's time before leaving, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends taking steps to protect your home. This includes:
- Connecting hoses and filling containers like garbage cans, tubs, or pools with water to assist firefighters
- Closing all windows and vents
- Shutting off the gas and power to the home, if it's safe to do so
Torres adds that closing doors and windows can help prevent embers from entering the house and causing a fire.
Don't Wait—Evacuate
Even if you haven't prepared a go bag or wildfire action plan, Torres stresses the importance of leaving as soon as you sense danger.
"Just get out of those warning- and evacuation order-zones. If you have family on the other side of the county, go to the other side of the county," he said.
Wildfires can spread quickly, especially in high winds. Thick smoke, downed power lines, abandoned cars, and heavy traffic can also impede escape routes.
If You Are Trapped
If you're unable to evacuate or become trapped, stay calm and call 911. Torres advises, "Realize where you are, what street you are at. Can you see an address sign? Call 911, so we can get resources out to you to try to find you."
Sometimes, during evacuation, people lose sight of the fire due to smoke, making it difficult to pinpoint their location.
An intersection or landmark can help emergency responders identify where you are and assess whether you're in immediate danger.
If it's safe to move, Torres recommends walking to a safer location and staying on a main route whenever possible.
This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press.
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