Checklist for evacuation

When an evacuation is anticipated, follow these checklists — if time allows — to give your home the best chance of surviving a wildfire.

OUTSIDE

1. Monitor the fire situation. Don’t wait for an evacuation order if you feel threatened and need to leave.

2. Check on neighbors and make sure they are preparing to leave.

3. Move propane barbecue appliances away from structures. Turn off propane tanks.

4. Gather up flammable items ( patio furniture, toys, doormats, trash cans, etc.) from outside the house and bring them inside.

5. Seal attic and ground vents with precut plywood or commercial seals.

6. Have a ladder available and place it at the corner of the house so firefighters can quickly access the roof.

7. Connect garden hoses to outside water valves or spigots for use by firefighters. Fill water buckets and place them around the house.

8. Leave exterior lights on so the home is visible to firefighters in the smoke or

darkness of night.

9. Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running; they can affect critical water pressure.

10. Put your emergency supply kit in your vehicle. Back your car into the driveway with vehicle loaded and all doors and windows closed. Carry your car keys with you.

INSIDE THE HOUSE

1. Remove flammable window shades and curtains.

2. Turn off the air conditioning.

3. Leave the lights on so firefighters can see the house under smoky conditions.

4. Move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors.

5. Shut all windows and doors, leaving them unlocked.

ANIMALS

1. Locate your pets and keep them nearby.

2. Prepare farm animals for transport, and think about moving them to a safe location early.