When a fire threatens your home or community, law enforcement and fire authorities issue fire evacuation warnings. Fire officials decide when and where to evacuate based on the fire, the wind and details surrounding the area’s terrain. This is done of course, to help you and your loved ones prepare and respond quickly.
Understanding Fire Evacuation Warnings: What You Need to Know
A fire evacuation “warning” is different than an evacuation “order”. A warning means “be ready to leave”. An order requires immediate evacuation.
Most areas have various levels of alert. Let’s define and explain each:
- Watch: This means to be on alert and ready to skedaddle if conditions worsen. Know where they are, how to keep in touch and be sure to keep active middle and high schoolers informed as they go about any activities during times of alert. This is time for preparation and moving the elderly or those people with special needs. Any livestock or mobile property should be moved.
- Warning: Evacuation is highly recommended. Gather your family and get ready to leave because dangerous conditions exist that may threaten you and your property. Law enforcement and fire personnel will likely provide specific information regarding the best routes to be taken. Those with special needs should leave now.
- Order: This is a mandatory evacuation. A level 3 alert means it’s time to leave right now. Current conditions present an immediate threat to your life and property. Again, the fire department and law enforcement will advise the best route(s) to take. They can inform you of the locations if any temporary shelters have been set up.
It’s also important to note that if you ignore this order, emergency services may not be able to provide any assistance. Roadblocks will likely be in place and not allow anyone to enter an area. Residents that have left will not be able to return until it’s safe to do so.
Staying informed is crucial especially during any “alert” period. You should be listening to local radio and TV stations and community notification systems. There are phone apps, such as FEMA’s emergency alerts to receive the latest updates.
How to Prepare Before a Fire Evacuation Warning
Create an emergency kit that’s easy to grab-n-go. These “go-bags” could be a couple of backpacks, plastic storage bins or stout boxes. Being prepared means putting emergency items together ahead of time. This emergency kit should include:
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
- Non-perishable food
- Portable radio and flashlight w/extra batteries
- Prescription’s, any essential medical and first aid supplies
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries/personal hygiene items
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Important documents (ID, insurance, medical records)
- Pet and their supplies
Another way to begin planning what should be included in your emergency kit are the 6 P’s. Although a bit more vague, these include:
- People
- Papers
- Prescriptions
- Pets
- Personal items
- Priceless items
Plan Your Evacuation Route
Identify multiple escape routes from your home and community in case one becomes inaccessible or congested with traffic. Have predetermined meeting locations where family members can reunite if separated. If emergency shelters have been set up, know where they are located.
Be sure to secure your home before leaving. Take steps to minimize fire damage by:
- Removing flammable materials from around your house.
- Sealing vents and windows to prevent embers from entering the house.
- If advised by authorities, be prepared to shut off gas, electricity and water supplies.
What to Do During a Fire Evacuation Warning
Repeating that once an evacuation warning or order is issued, you must act quickly:
- Pack essentials, including your emergency kit and valuable belongings. Incidentally, wear clothes (100% cotton is probably the best) that covers as much skin as possible. Long pants, long sleeves and sturdy shoes or boots will help protect you from heat and sparks.
- Load pets and family members into the car immediately.
- Follow designated evacuation routes; do not take shortcuts, as they may be unsafe.
- Stay calm and leave promptly because delaying evacuation could put you and others in jeopardy.
Returning Safely After a Fire
After a fire evacuation, authorities will give an all-clear signal when it is safe to return. Upon arrival, take precautions:
- Inspect your property for structural damage, smoldering embers or ash.
- Avoid using utilities until officials confirm they are safe.
- Take photos of damages for insurance claims.
- Emotional support is often needed following such a traumatic experience.
Be aware of flash flooding and mudslide possibilities following a wildfire. This is particularly true in areas of burned forests upstream from your home.
Other Resources for Fire Safety and Preparedness
Being proactive about fire safety can save lives. Check out these resources now, to stay prepared:
- FEMA’s fire preparation guide: Get worthwhile checklists and safety tips.
- Likewise, the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection has lots of solid tips.
- Emergency alert apps: Sign up for real-time fire updates.
- Community assistance: Help each other, especially vulnerable neighbors, the elderly and pets in need.
In wrapping things up for this article, it should be no surprise that preparation is key to surviving a fire evacuation in your town. By understanding warning levels, having an emergency plan and acting quickly, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Please take a couple of minutes and share this guide with family and friends and start creating your fire safety plan today!
