Wildfire

What it is

A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns through grass, brush or forest. Wind and dry weather can push it faster than you can run, and embers can start new fires more than a mile ahead of the flames.

Who is at risk

Anyone living in or near wildland, grassland or forest, especially in the West, the Great Plains and the Southeast during dry, windy seasons. People who need help to move, and homes on a single road out, face the greatest danger.

Get ready now

1. Sign up for your county's emergency alerts and keep your phone's emergency alerts turned on.
2. Learn your evacuation routes and pick two ways out of your neighborhood.
3. Pack a go-bag for each person and pet: water, medicine, documents, chargers, masks and a change of clothes.
4. Clear dead leaves, needles and anything that burns from within 5 feet of your home, including gutters and under decks.
5. Keep N95 or P100 masks at home to protect against smoke.
6. Plan how you will move anyone who needs help, and who will collect children or pets if you are away.
7. Photograph your home and belongings, and keep important documents in a fireproof place or online.

When it happens

1. If officials tell you to evacuate, leave right away. Don't wait to see the flames.
2. If you are trapped, call 911, tell them where you are, and stay inside a building away from outside walls.
3. Close windows, doors and vents before you go, and leave lights on so firefighters can see your home in smoke.
4. Drive with headlights on, windows up and air set to recirculate. Watch for people, animals and fire crews.
5. Wear a mask to cut down on smoke, and keep track of air quality.

After

1. Go home only when officials say it is safe.
2. Watch for hot spots, ash pits, fallen power lines and damaged trees.
3. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, long sleeves and sturdy shoes when cleaning up ash.
4. Check with your water utility before drinking tap water; fires can damage water systems.
5. Throw out food that was exposed to heat, smoke or soot.
6. Photograph damage and contact your insurance company.

Official sources

• Ready.gov: Wildfires
• National Weather Service: Wildfire safety
• CDC: Wildfires
• American Red Cross: Wildfire safety

This guide summarises public advice. Always follow instructions from local officials and emergency services.