The first hour

  1. Grab the go-bag and the 6 P's: People and pets; Papers, phone numbers and documents; Prescriptions, vitamins and eyeglasses; Pictures and irreplaceable keepsakes; Personal computer and hard drives; 'Plastic' (credit cards) and cash.
  2. Wear long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, and an N95 mask.
  3. If time allows: close all windows and doors (unlocked), shut off gas at the meter, turn on outside lights, move furniture away from windows.
  4. Leave as soon as you're told, or sooner if you feel unsafe. Don't wait for an order.
  5. Drive with headlights on and windows up. Follow official routes.

The first day

  1. Check in with your out-of-area contact so people know you're safe.
  2. Register at a shelter or with the Red Cross 'Safe and Well' if needed.
  3. Stay away until officials say it's safe to return.
  4. Watch air quality. Keep indoors with windows shut when smoke is heavy.

The first week and beyond

  1. When you return, watch for hot spots, ash pits and damaged power lines.
  2. Wear an N95, gloves and boots during cleanup. Ash can irritate skin and lungs.
  3. Throw out food exposed to heat, smoke or fire, including canned food.
  4. Be aware of later flooding and mudslides on burned slopes.

Get ready now: checklist

Your checks save on this phone.

Common mistakes

  • Waiting to see how bad it gets.
  • Trying to pack everything.
  • Coming back before an all-clear.
  • Not signing up for local alerts.

Keeping kids calm

  • Let kids pack their own small bag with a favorite toy and a comfort item.
  • Practice a 'grab and go' drill with a timer. Make it a game.
  • Keep calm. Kids read your face.

Gear that helps

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Sources

Keep going

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