In case of an evacuation: [print-me]

• Prepare a 72 hour kit ahead of time to grab-n-go.
• Make an evacuation plan ahead of time.
• Pack important papers and documents.
• Dress to prevent burns – sturdy shoes, long pants, hat (not made of nylon), bandana (to protect your face and assist in breathing in smoke).
• Turn off  propane or natural gas valves on outside tanks or bottles.
• Put all portable propane tanks together in a defensible space.
• Pet & Livestock Evacuation Planning
• Leave outside lights on so fire fighters can see your home through the smoke
• Leave a note in your home with contact information

If time allows:

• Cover windows and other openings with fire resistant material.
• Remove excess gasoline and propane tanks from property.
• Attach garden hoses to spigots.
• Fill trashcans/buckets with water & place them where firefighters can find them.
• Place a ladder against the house opposite the approaching fire.
• Move combustible deck furniture inside.
• Close windows and doors to prevent sparks or smoke from blowing inside.
• Remove curtains or drapes.
• Move stuffed furniture away from windows and walls.

Evacuation:

• Let authorities know of neighbors who might need assistance evacuating.
• Let authorities know if you have bulk fuel tanks on your property and where they are located.
• Use pre-planned routes, away from the approaching fire front.
• If you are trapped by fire while evacuating in your car, park in an area clear of vegetation, close windows and vents, cover yourself with a blanket or jacket and lie on the floor.
• If you are trapped by fire while evacuating on foot, select an area clear of vegetation along a road, or lie in the road ditch.  Cover any exposed skin.  Avoid canyons that can concentrate and channel fire.
• If you are trapped by wildfire inside your home, stay away from outside walls.  Close doors, but leave unlocked.  Keep your entire family together and remain calm.  If it gets hot inside, it is much hotter and dangerous outside.

Returning After Evacuation or after the fire passes:

• Check the roof immediately for sparks and embers.
• Check inside the attic for hidden burning embers.
• Check the yard for burning woodpiles, fence posts or other materials.
• Keep the doors and windows closed.
• Continue rechecking your home and yard for at least 12 hours.

Large Animal Evacuations:

Fire personnel do not typically have the resources to evacuate large animals but depend on you to evacuate them. Large animals frighten or spook easily with an approaching fire and can injure themselves or worse, fire fighters trying to pass through, near or in their areas.
It is always best to have a plan ahead of time to get your animals to safety.