Wildfire FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about wildfire safety, building defensible space, packing a go bag, protecting your home from embers, and knowing when it's time to evacuate — because when a wildfire is nearby, every minute matters.
Common Questions
How do I prepare for a wildfire (or forest fire)?
Create defensible space around your home: 100 feet of cleared brush in fire-prone zones. Harden your home with Class A fire-rated roofing and 1/8-inch mesh vent screens. Pack a wildfire go-bag with N95 masks and goggles. Have at least two pre-planned evacuation routes, and sign up for local emergency alerts.
How do I survive a wildfire?
If authorities order an evacuation, leave immediately — wildfires can spread faster than most people expect. If you find yourself trapped, wear a N95 mask, stay low, and find water, rocky, or already burned areas to shelter.
What do I pack in a go bag for wildfires?
For wildfire evacuation, pack N95 masks, safety goggles, cotton bandanas, long sleeves and pants (cotton, not synthetic), sturdy shoes, water, food bars, medications, documents, cash, a flashlight, and vehicle keys. Evacuate early if an evacuation order is possible.
What is defensible space?
Defensible space is a cleared buffer zone around your home that slows or stops wildfire spread. Cal Fire requires 100 feet in fire-prone zones: 0 to 5 feet of noncombustible ground, 5 to 30 feet of lean landscaping, and 30 to 100 feet of reduced fuel.
How do I protect my home from wildfire embers?
Embers cause most wildfire home losses. Install 1/8-inch mesh screens on vents, clear roof gutters and roof valleys of debris, remove combustible materials from within 5 feet of the house, close all windows during fire weather, and harden roofs with Class A fire-rated materials.
When should I evacuate for a wildfire?
Evacuate immediately when your zone receives an evacuation order or warning. Do not wait to be told twice. Pack your go-bag and leave early, before roads close and smoke reduces visibility. If possible, pre-plan 2 to 3 evacuation routes.
What N95 mask do I need for wildfire smoke?
Use a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator for wildfire smoke protection. N95 filters 95 percent of particulates, including PM2.5, from wildfire smoke. A surgical or cloth mask does not protect against smoke. Fit the mask tightly over nose and mouth for full effectiveness.
How do I check wildfire evacuation zones?
California residents check evacuation zones at protect.genasys.com or calfire.ca.gov. Other states use local CAL FIRE equivalents, county sheriff websites, or the FEMA app. Sign up for Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and local alert systems, like Nixle and CodeRED.