University of California
Homeowner's Wildfire Mitigation Guide
Appendix D: Pre-evacuation checklist
Keep this list in an obvious and conveneient place, perferrably in your garage near your emergency supplies. Follow this checklist when a wildfire is reported.
- Evacuate any children, elderly, or disabled persons long before the fire arrives; preferably at the first indication that a fire is anywhere in your area
- Place blankets and water in car for evacuation and determine alternate routes to leave
- If you have precut panels ready for windows and vents, get them nailed or screwed in place
- Plug your downspouts with something like socks filled with sand or dirt, and fill your gutters with water
- Remove all materials from your decks, porches, or landings|
- Remove any inside window coverings such as drapes or furniture that might catch on fire from radiation through the windows or after window breakage
- Check your emergency kit and related supplies
- Gather your protective clothing
- Have your hose connected to the water supply and under pressure in the event that embers reach your house before evacuation
- Survey the outside to make sure that everything is in readiness