- As the fire front approaches, go inside your home, take a deep breath and remain as calm as possible.
- Shelter in a room opposite the direction from the which the fire is approaching.
- Do NOT go outside until the fire passes.
After the Fire Passes:
- Check the roof immediately. Extinguish any sparks or embers.
- Check inside the attic for hidden burning embers. Extinguish any fires with remaining water from your pool, sinks, toilet tanks, garbage cans, etc.
- Over the next several hours continue monitoring your home for signs of smoke and embers.
Important Tips During a Wildfire
- If you see a wildfire, Call 9-1-1
- During large fires 9-1-1 dispatchers become inundated with hundreds of non-life threatening calls.
DO NOT CALL 9-1-1 for the following:
- To ask if you should evacuate or stay in your home. If you're unsure, be safe, not sorry…EVACUATE.
- To ask for directions out of town. Plan a minimum of at least two escape routes out of town well in advance. Be sure your entire family is familiar with this plan.
- To ask what roads are closed. Dispatchers do not have this information. For updates, stay tuned to local news radio KOGO AM-600 or KFMB AM-760, or ask law enforcement officers or firefighters in the area.
- Take a deep breath and stay in control of your situation. With adequate planning and practice you can be confident in your skills to survive the disaster.
- If you decide to stay with your home during a wildfire, evacuate all family members and pets that are not essential to protecting your home.
- Dress properly to shield yourself from the heat, embers and flames. Wear cotton or wool long pants, a long-sleeve shirt or jacket, gloves, boots and a damp cloth to cover your nose and mouth. Do not wear a short-sleeve shirt or synthetic fabrics.
- Take steps to prepare your home for the approaching fire.
- If caught in the open, seek shelter where fuel is sparse.
Source: Rancho Santa Fe Fire District Website