Wildfire/Bushfire Safety:
- During a Fire
Fires may have been burning nearby for several days or even weeks, and you know evacuation could become necessary. In these situations, stay alert to changing conditions and be prepared to leave if authorities issue an evacuation order.
- Turn off the houses’ propane or natural gas.
- Close all inside doors to slow the spread of fire inside the house.
- Turn off all devices that circulate air throughout the house.
- Call 911 or 919 if you are trapped.
- Move fabric-covered furniture away from window and doors.
- Wet the yard and roof with a sprinkler or hose.
- Stay calm. It’ll likely get very hot inside the house, but even hotter outside. Stay inside.
- While Driving
Don’t wait to evacuate! Your car can’t outrun a wildfire. Here are some tips if you find yourself in a vehicle during a wildfire.
- Turn your headlights and hazards lights on to avoid accidents with others.
- Don’t drive fast, try to drive slowly due to low visibility from thick smoke clouds.
- Close or block air vents to keep smoke from getting into your vehicle.
- Use recirculated air from the air conditioner from the middle console in your vehicle.
- Use dry material (such as cloth and tissue) to cover you face and protect your skin.
- Returning Home
In many cases, wildfires burning an hour away or even many hours’ drive from where you live can affect you. Here are some tips to assist you when returning home:
- Wait for the official all-clear. Don’t return until authorities say it’s safe.
- Inspect Your Property Carefully. Check for structural damage, hot spots, etc.
- Don’t Use Utilities Yet. Avoid turning on gas, electricity, or water until inspected.
- When cleaning, wear protective clothing during clean-up efforts.
- Use a respirator to limit your exposure, and wet debris to minimize breathing dust particles.
- Take photos before clean-up for insurance and recovery assistance.
Last Updated:
02/07/2026
