Wildfire Evacuation Checklist
When a wildfire evacuation order comes, you may have minutes. This checklist covers pre-season hardening, early warning actions, and last-minute departure tasks so your family can move fast and safely.
Wildfire Evacuation Checklist
Complete pre-season tasks before fire season. Use departure tasks when an evacuation warning or order is issued.
Pre-Season Preparation (Annual)
| Done | Task | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clear 30-ft defensible space around home (remove dead vegetation) | ||
| Clear gutters of leaves and debris | ||
| Screen attic vents with 1/8" metal mesh | ||
| Remove combustible materials from decks and under porches | ||
| Know your evacuation zone and sign up for local alerts | ||
| Pre-pack go bags and keep them accessible | ||
| Photograph home and valuables for insurance | ||
| Store important documents in fireproof box or cloud | ||
| Fill vehicle with gas at start of fire season | ||
| Review and practice family communication plan |
Evacuation Warning Issued (Leave May Be Needed)
| Done | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monitor alerts, NOAA radio, local emergency alerts, Nixle | ||
| Load go bags and valuables into vehicle | ||
| Back vehicle into driveway, facing outward, keys in ignition | ||
| Charge all phones and power banks | ||
| Close all windows and doors (do not lock) | ||
| Contact family members, confirm status and meeting point | ||
| Fill bathtubs and containers with water | ||
| Move combustibles away from home exterior |
Evacuation Order Issued, Depart Immediately
| Done | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grab go bags, do not delay to pack extra items | ||
| Load pets and pet supplies | ||
| Take medications (critical, do not forget) | ||
| Close all interior doors (slows fire spread) | ||
| Turn off gas at meter | ||
| Leave outdoor lights on (visibility through smoke) | ||
| Leave a note on door: family name, destination, departure time | ||
| Follow designated evacuation route, do not use shortcuts | ||
| Notify out-of-area contact of your status |
Go Bag Quick-Pack List
| Item | Packed | Location in Home |
|---|---|---|
| Go bags (pre-packed) | ||
| Prescriptions / daily medications | ||
| Phone chargers | ||
| Wallet / cash | ||
| Laptop / hard drives | ||
| Irreplaceable photos (USB) | ||
| Pet food and carrier | ||
| Children's comfort items |
Destination & Contacts
| Option | Location / Name | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary shelter (family/friend) | |||
| Secondary shelter (hotel) | |||
| Local emergency shelter | |||
| Pet-friendly shelter |
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I evacuate for a wildfire?
Evacuate immediately when an official evacuation order is issued for your area, do not wait to see the fire. If you are in a Watch or Warning zone and conditions are deteriorating rapidly, leave before the order if you feel unsafe. Wildfires can move faster than people can drive on congested roads. Early voluntary evacuation is almost always safer than waiting for a mandatory order.
What should I grab when evacuating for a wildfire?
Prioritize people, pets, and medications first, everything else is replaceable. In the time available, also take: important documents (IDs, insurance, medical records), phone and chargers, prescription medications (30-day supply), cash, emergency clothing for several days, and your pre-packed bug out bag if available. Use this printed checklist to avoid forgetting critical items under the stress of a rapid evacuation.
How do I prepare my home before evacuating for a wildfire?
If time allows before leaving: close all windows and doors (do not lock, firefighters may need access), remove flammable furniture from decks, connect garden hoses to exterior faucets, shut off gas at the meter, leave exterior lights on so the structure is visible in smoke, and note your property's address visibly at the road. Take a quick video of the exterior for insurance documentation.
How do I create a wildfire evacuation plan for my family?
Identify two evacuation routes out of your neighborhood (wildfire can cut off roads). Choose a destination and a backup (a friend or family member's home out of the area, or a specific evacuation shelter). Assign roles: who grabs pets, who grabs the bag, who drives. Practice the plan so everyone acts quickly under stress. Sign up for your county's emergency alert system for early warnings.