WILDFIRES

Where They Occur:
Western states including California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and increasingly in Texas, Oklahoma, and southeastern states during drought conditions.

Key Risks:
Property loss, smoke inhalation, air quality deterioration, burns, evacuation challenges, and long-term health effects from smoke exposure.

Before Wildfire Season:

• Create defensible space around your home by clearing vegetation within 30-100 feet (check local requirements)

• Use fire-resistant building materials for roofs, siding, and decks

• Keep gutters and roofs clear of dry leaves and debris

• Trim tree branches within 10 feet of your roof or chimney

• Store firewood at least 30 feet from structures

• Create a wildfire action plan including evacuation routes and meeting locations

• Prepare a "go bag" that can be grabbed in minutes

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications

• Keep N95 or P100 respirator masks on hand for smoke protection

During a Wildfire:

• Evacuate immediately if ordered—do not wait

• Close all windows and doors but leave them unlocked for firefighters

• Turn on lights to increase home visibility in heavy smoke

• Move flammable furniture to the center of rooms away from windows

• Shut off gas at the meter and turn off pilot lights

• Connect garden hoses to outdoor faucets and fill pools, tubs, and containers with water

• Monitor air quality and limit outdoor activity when smoke is present

After a Wildfire:

• Wait for the all-clear from authorities before returning

• Document damage with photos and video for insurance

• Be alert for hot spots that could reignite

• Avoid damaged areas and structures

• Watch for ash pits and mark them to warn others

• Address water damage from firefighting efforts promptly to prevent mold

Resources:

• Cal Fire: fire.ca.gov

• Ready for Wildfire: readyforwildfire.org

• AirNow Air Quality: airnow.gov