What To Do When Trapped By Wildfire

Step 1: Remain Calm

• An approaching wildfire will be extremely loud, create extreme heat and smoke, and will likely evoke fear and panic. However, the active flame will pass. 

Step 2: Prepare Safe Zones

Near Your Home

• Choose the most well-constructed or modern building for shelter.
• Shut all windows and doors and put wet towels across window and door edges to prevent smoke and flames from entering the house.

In A Vehicle or Outside

• Whether in a vehicle or on foot, select an area that will not burn or an area with the least amount of combustible material – the bigger the better.
  • Examples include irrigated pastures, golf courses, parking lots, large ponds, depressions in the ground, and any other area that will not support combustion.
• If trapped in a vehicle, park vehicle off the road, if possible.

Step 3: Protect Yourself

Near Your Home

• Stay inside while the fire front passes. Stay low to keep cool and avoid smoke inhalation.
• Move to the end of the house farthest from the fire front. Preferable to shelter in a part of your building that allows you to see the progress of the fire.
• Look out for embers landing inside the home and extinguish any spot fires.
• After the fire has passed over the house, head outside to an area with no flames for safety. This may be an area that just burned.

In A Vehicle or Outside

• Use every means possible to protect yourself and your lungs from the extreme heat emitted by the flames.
  • Examples of natural features to look for include boulders, rock outcrops, large downed logs, trees, snags, etc.
• If trapped in a vehicle:
  • Stay inside the vehicle until the fire has passed. The car should remain on with windows rolled up and AC recirculation on.
  • Lie on vehicle floor and cover yourself with a natural fibered blanket or jacket.
  • Be aware that metal parts of the vehicle will be hot. Avoid direct contact if possible.
  • Evacuate on foot as a last resort. 

Step 4: Assess Hazards After Fire Front Has Passed

After the fire front has passed, be wary of potential hazards.

• Call 9-1-1 for help if you need medical assistance and cannot leave the area after the fire has passed.
• Continue to wear personal protective clothing.
• Inspect the perimeter of the home/structure and extinguish any spot fires. Test door surface with the back of your hand before opening.
• Be aware of trees, brush, or rocks which may be weakened or loosened by fire.
• Stay clear of electrical wires on the ground - consider them energized.