Appendix F: Community Planning Tool for Wildfires

Download the Wildfire Emergency Planning document (PDF)

Wildfire Emergency Planning

In the Neighborhood

Develop a neighborhood emergency plan that includes a notification and alert system, a carpool plan, and the identification of neighbors with special needs.
Practice at least two escape routes from your home/neighborhood by car and by foot (remember that evacuation by foot can be extremely hazardous).
Identify zones in your neighborhood, such as schoolyards, which are safe from wildfire. These open areas can serve as a default evacuation center if roads are blocked and escape from the neighborhood is not possible.
Prune street trees to allow passage of emergency vehicles.

In Your Home

Develop a family evacuation plan.
Prepare a small “grab and go” kit of essentials that you may need, such as cash, personal items, and medicines—plus items you may need for the care and transportation of pets.
Use non-combustible siding and roofing materials.
Enclose eaves with non-combustible materials.
Do not place attic vents under the eaves or overhangs.
Wrap decks with non-combustible siding.
Screen foundation vents and locate them as close to grade as practical.
Keep gutters & roof free of leaves, fir needles or debris (firebrands can travel on air currents for up to a half-mile).
Store firewood, picnic tables, recreational vehicles, and other burnable items away from buildings.
Be mindful when cooking outdoors.
Avoid using fireworks near vegetated areas. Do not purchase or use illegal fireworks!

After a Fire Starts

Implement your family evacuation plan.
Implement your neighborhood emergency plan.
Keep roads clear for emergency vehicle access.
If you are positive you have enough time:

• Close all windows and doors.
• Remove lightweight curtains and drapes from your windows; they may catch fi re from the radiant heat of an approaching wildfire.
• Shut off natural gas at the home meter.