Before, During and After a Wildfire

Wildfire Actions

What to do BEFORE a wildland fire:

• Create defensible space to separate your home from flammable vegetation and materials (minimum 100ft PRC 4291).
• Adhere to all local fire and building codes and weed abatement ordinances.
• Keep all trees and shrub limbs trimmed so they do not come into contact with electrical wires or overhang your chimney. (Do not trim around live power lines yourself, call a professional).
• Prune all lower branches 8 feet from the ground.
• Keep trees adjacent to buildings free of dead or dying branches.
• Stack firewood away from your home and other buildings. (Keep clearance around your piles).
• Keep roof surfaces clear of pine needles, leaves, and debris at all times.
• Install spark arresters for each chimney (PRC 4291).
• Clean chimneys and check and maintain spark arresters twice a year.
• Keep rain gutters clear of debris at all times.
• Use approved fire-resistant materials when building, renovating, or retrofitting structures.
• Install electrical lines underground if possible.
• Be sure your house numbers show clearly from the street, both day and night.
• Store combustible or flammable materials in approved containers.
• Store all important papers in a fireproof container or keep copies at another location.
• Make evacuation plans with family members. Include several options with an outside meeting place and contact person. Practice regularly.
• Keep battery-operated radios and flashlights with additional fresh batteries on hand.

What to do DURING a wildland fire:

• Turn on a battery-operated radio to get the latest emergency information.
• If you have a ladder, prop it against the house so you and firefighters have access to the roof.
• If hoses and adequate water are available set them up. Fill buckets with water.
• Remove combustible materials from the area surrounding your house. (Lawnchairs, tables, etc.)
• Turn a light on in each room for visibility in case of smoke.
• Close all doors and windows, but do not lock them.
• Open or takedown flammable drapes and curtains.
• Close all Venetian blinds and non-flammable window coverings.
• Move upholstered furniture away from windows and sliding glass doors.
• Be ready to evacuate all family members and pets when requested to do so.
• Turn of air conditioning/air circulation systems.
• Detach electrical garage doors. Back in your car and leave the keys in the ignition.
• Secure your pets if possible.

What to do AFTER a wildland fire:

• Check with fire officials before attempting to return to your home.
• Use caution when re-entering a burned area – fare-ups can occur.
• Check grounds for hot spots smoldering stumps and vegetation. Use your buckets of water.
• Check the roof and exterior areas for sparks and embers.
• Check the attic and throughout the house for hidden burning sparks and embers.
• Continue to check for problem areas for several days.
• Contact 911 if any danger is perceived.
• If burning outside your home was extensive, watch for soil erosion.
• Consult local experts on the best way to restore and replant your land with fire-safe landscaping.

CalFire – Prepare for Wildfire