After a Wildfire

The following are guidelines for different circumstances in the period following a fire:

·         Go to a designated public shelter if you have been told to evacuate or you feel it is unsafe to remain in your home. Text SHELTER + your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) to find the nearest shelter in your area (example: shelter 12345).

·         If you are with burn victims, or are a burn victim yourself, call 9-1-1 or seek help immediately; cool and cover burns to reduce chance of further injury or infection.

·         If you remained at home, check the roof immediately after the fire danger has passed. Put out any roof fires, sparks or embers. Check the attic for hidden burning sparks.

·         For several hours after the fire, maintain a "fire watch." Re-check for smoke and sparks throughout the house.

·         If you have evacuated, do not enter your home until fire officials say it is safe.

·         If a building inspector has placed a color-coded sign on the home, do not enter it until you get more information, advice and instructions about what the sign means and whether it is safe to enter your home.

·         If you must leave your home because a building inspector says the building is unsafe, ask someone you trust to watch the property during your absence.

·         Use caution when entering burned areas as hazards may still exist, including hot spots, which can flare up without warning.

·         If you detect heat or smoke when entering a damaged building, evacuate immediately.

·         If you have a safe or strong box, do not try to open it. It can hold intense heat for several hours. If the door is opened before the box has cooled, the contents could burst into flames.

·         Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed wires.

·         Watch for ash pits and mark them for safety—warn family and neighbors to keep clear of the pits also.

·         Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control. Hidden embers and hot spots could burn your pets’ paws or hooves.

·         Follow public health guidance on safe cleanup of fire ash and safe use of masks.

·         Wet debris down to minimize breathing dust particles.

·         Wear leather gloves and heavy soled shoes to protect hands and feet.

·         Cleaning products, paint, batteries and damaged fuel containers need to be disposed of properly to avoid risk.

·         Discard any food that has been exposed to heat, smoke or soot.

·         Do NOT use water that you think may be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.

·         Remain calm. Pace yourself. You may find yourself in the position of taking charge of other people. Listen carefully to what people are telling you, and deal patiently with urgent situations first.