Wildfires

Wildfires can spread faster than you can run, and smoke can cut visibility to nothing in minutes. The safest choice is almost always to leave early, before the fire is close.

Before fire season

Clear dead leaves, branches and dry grass from around your home and out of gutters.
Keep a grab bag packed and your car fuelled.
Plan at least two ways out of your area, in case one is blocked.
Agree a meeting point with your household.
Find out how your local authorities send fire warnings.

When there's a fire nearby

Follow instructions from your local authorities and emergency services. If they say go, go straight away.
Don't wait to see flames. Leave early, while roads are clear and you can still see.
Wear long sleeves, long trousers, sturdy shoes and natural fabrics like cotton or wool. Synthetic fabrics can melt.
Take your grab bag, medicines, documents, pets and a mask or damp cloth for smoke.
Close all windows and doors behind you, but leave them unlocked for firefighters.
Drive with headlights on and windows closed. Watch for people and animals on the road.

If you're trapped

Call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America) and tell them exactly where you are.
In a car: park away from trees and bushes, keep the engine running for air conditioning on recirculate, close the vents, get down below window level and cover yourself with a woollen blanket.
In a building: stay inside, away from outside walls and windows. Fill sinks and baths with water. A house usually gives more protection than open ground as the fire front passes.
On foot: get to bare ground, a road, or a stretch of rock or water. Lie face down and cover yourself.

Smoke

Smoke can harm you far from the fire. Stay indoors with windows shut, avoid hard exercise and use a well-fitting mask if you have one. People with asthma, older people and children are most at risk.

After the fire

Only return when the authorities say it's safe.
Watch for hot spots, fallen power lines and weakened trees.
Wear gloves, sturdy boots and a mask when clearing ash.

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