Wildfire Evacuation Plan
When wildfire threatens, knowing exactly when to evacuate and what steps to take before leaving your home can be the difference between life and death. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, wildfires can spread at rates of up to 14 miles per hour—leaving families with precious little time to react once flames are visible. Studies show that the majority of wildfire fatalities occur when evacuation decisions are delayed or when residents attempt to flee at the last moment when escape routes are already compromised.
This comprehensive evacuation guide addresses the most critical aspects of wildfire evacuation timing, pre-evacuation preparations, and specific considerations for evacuating with children, elderly family members, and pets. Whether you live in a high-risk wildfire zone or are visiting one, understanding the importance of early evacuation and proper preparation can save your life and the lives of those you love.
From securing your property before departure to managing special evacuation scenarios, this guide provides actionable steps to ensure you’re ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Remember—when it comes to wildfire evacuation, early action is always safer than waiting until the last minute.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Wildfire Preparedness here.
Evacuation Timing
When it comes to evacuating during a wildfire, timing is everything. Fires can move unpredictably and with incredible speed, so leaving early is your best chance for safety. It’s crucial to stay alert and pay close attention to evacuation alerts and warnings from local authorities, whether through news, emergency notifications, or public safety channels. Evacuating before the fire reaches your area or before roads become congested is essential for avoiding dangerous situations and ensuring a smooth exit.
Wildfires can change direction quickly based on wind conditions, terrain, and other factors. That’s why it’s important to be proactive and ready to leave when necessary. Don’t wait until the last moment. If you hear about a fire in your area, don’t assume it will stay contained—be prepared to evacuate if the situation escalates. If authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it immediately. Every minute you delay can increase your risk.
It’s also important to understand that wildfires can block certain routes or make roads impassable due to smoke, fallen trees, or even the fire itself. By leaving early, you give yourself a better chance of avoiding these obstacles and ensuring that your route out is clear.
Pre-Evacuation Steps
Before you leave, taking a few simple steps can help reduce the risk of further damage to your home and increase your safety. These actions, while they may seem small, can make a big difference in preventing the spread of fire and minimizing damage when you’re away.
- Secure Your Property: Start by closing all windows and doors to reduce the potential for embers to enter your home. It’s also essential to remove any outdoor furniture or other objects that could catch fire easily, like BBQ grills, umbrellas, and trash cans. These items can not only become fuel for the fire but can also end up on your roof or in your yard, increasing the risk of ignition.
- Disconnect Propane Tanks: If you have propane tanks on your property, disconnect them before you evacuate. They can explode if exposed to high heat, posing additional risk to your home and anyone in the vicinity. Even if you don’t use propane often, it’s a good practice to disconnect these tanks when a wildfire is nearby.
- Shut off Utilities: One of the most crucial steps you can take before leaving is to turn off your utilities. This includes the electricity, gas, and water lines. Shutting off the gas line can prevent leaks and fires caused by the fire reaching your house. Turning off electricity can reduce the risk of sparks or electrical fires, especially if power lines are downed. Lastly, turning off the water can prevent pressure loss and leakage. Make sure everyone knows how to turn off these utilities, as you might not be around to handle them yourself.
Evacuation Scenarios
Evacuations can vary based on the specific needs of your family members. While the general process remains the same, it’s important to plan for different scenarios depending on the people or animals you may need to evacuate.
- Children and Elderly Family Members: When evacuating with children or elderly family members, extra care must be taken to ensure everyone’s needs are met. Consider the time it will take to pack up, get everyone ready, and move to a safe location. For children, have their favorite items ready to go, including a backpack with necessities like toys, snacks, and comfort items. For elderly members, ensure they have any necessary medications, mobility aids (such as walkers or wheelchairs), and extra clothing. If possible, plan ahead with neighbors or community members who may be able to help during the evacuation.
- Pets and Livestock: Don’t forget your pets during the evacuation. Have transportation ready, such as carriers for small animals or trailers for larger ones. Plan for food and water supplies for your pets, as well as any medication they may need. If you have livestock, make arrangements for their transport to a safe location, and ensure that they have enough food and water to last for several days. Identify local animal shelters, pet-friendly evacuation centers, or farms where animals can be sheltered in an emergency.
- Special Needs: If someone in your household has special needs, like mobility challenges, make sure their evacuation is given extra attention. You may need additional help with transportation or special equipment like oxygen tanks, medical supplies, or a mobility device. Keep a list of medical information and emergency contacts for anyone with special needs to make the process smoother.
Evacuating safely during a wildfire is crucial, and the earlier you take action, the better. By knowing your evacuation routes, securing your property, and preparing for various evacuation scenarios, you can reduce chaos and stress in a high-pressure situation. Keep in mind that every second counts, so it’s important to be prepared for any emergency. In the face of a wildfire, staying calm, following your plan, and acting swiftly will help you and your loved ones stay safe. Together, we can ensure that everyone gets to safety and begins the recovery process as smoothly as possible.
🚨Want to do more? Donate to support wildfire evacuation efforts and help communities stay safe when disaster strikes, or Get Trained as a Hope Force Reservist to assist with evacuation procedures and provide critical aid during emergencies.
Together, we can ensure families have the resources and support they need to evacuate safely, protecting lives and minimizing damage. Your involvement can make a real difference in the moments that matter most.
