Set - Prepare and Be Aware

  • Monitor fire weather conditions and fire status. Check NMFireinfo.com, social media accounts, the LAFD and LAC emergency management websites for wildland fire information. Stay tuned to your TV or local radio stations (such as 1610AM) for updates, including Red Flag Warnings in your area.
  • Alert household and neighbors.
  • Dress appropriately (clothing made from natural fibers and work boots). Have goggles, a dry bandana or particle mask handy.
  • Ensure Go Kits have the essentials: battery powered radio, spare batteries, emergency contact numbers, and drinking water.
  • Remain close to your house, stay hydrated, and ensure your household members and pets are accounted for and ready to leave.
  • Consider evacuating family members with special needs and large animals to a safe, predetermined location early, to reduce stress should an evacuation order be issued.

INSIDE CHECKLIST, IF TIME ALLOWS

  • Close all windows and doors.
  • Remove all shades and curtains from windows and ensure non-metal blinds remain open. Close all metal blinds.
  • Move furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors.
  • Turn off air conditioning units. q Leave your lights on so firefighters can see your house in smoky conditions.

OUTSIDE CHECKLIST, IF TIME ALLOWS

  • Move combustible items to a safe distance from the house’s exterior (e.g., patio furniture, children’s toys, door mats, etc.) or pIace them indoors to reduce hazards, if time permits.
  • Be prepared to take your propane tank with you when evacuating, if you own one; if you can’t, move it to a space that is outdoors, far from the home, and visible to firefighters.
  • Don’t leave sprinklers or water running as they can affect critical water pressure.
  • Leave exterior lights on.
  • Back your car into the driveway with doors and windows shut for a quick departure.
  • Keep a ladder handy to cover attic vents safely if time allows. Use pre-cut plywood or commercial seals to cover vents (attic/ground).
  • Patrol your property and extinguish small fires, if you can do so safely, until you leave.

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED: SURVIVAL TIPS

  • If you have become trapped and cannot evacuate, call 9-1-1 immediately.
  • Stay in your home, sheltering away from walls, until the fire passes or emergency personnel tell you differently. Follow their instructions and commands.
  • Look for spot fires and extinguish if found inside house.
  • Wear long sleeves, long pants, and a bandana made of natural fibers, such as cotton.
  • Stay hydrated. q Ensure you can exit the home if it catches fire. Remember, if it’s hot inside the house, it is four to five times hotter outside. Be prepared.
  • Fill sinks and tubs for an emergency water supply.
  • Place wet towels under doors to keep smoke and embers out. q After the fire has passed, check your roof and extinguish any fires, sparks, or embers if you are able to safely do so. Check the attic as well.