Wildfire Evacuation Plan & Prep Guide 2026

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May – October Wildfire Season

Wildfires can move faster than you can drive. The difference between escaping safely and being trapped is almost always the same thing: having a plan ready before you need it.

🌿 Defensible Space Basics

Defensible space is the buffer between your home and the vegetation that could fuel a wildfire. Many homes that survived the 2023–2024 fires did so because of defensible space — not luck.

Zone 1 (0–30 ft): Clear all dead vegetation, wood piles, and flammable materials from around your home
Trim tree branches to at least 6–10 feet above the ground
Remove shrubs and plants directly under trees (ladder fuels that carry fire up)
Zone 2 (30–100 ft): Reduce plant density, space shrubs and trees 10+ feet apart
Remove dead leaves, needles, and debris from roof and gutters
Move wood piles, propane tanks, and flammable materials away from the house
Use fire-resistant mulch (gravel or decomposed granite near the home)

😷 Air Quality Preparation

Even if fire is 50 miles away, wildfire smoke can hit hazardous AQI levels. PM2.5 particles penetrate deep into lungs — the danger is invisible.

Download the AirNow app or airnow.gov — check AQI before going outside
Stock N95 respirator masks — surgical masks do not block smoke particles
Seal windows and doors with tape or weatherstripping during smoke events
Run a HEPA air purifier indoors to clean recirculated air
Keep pets indoors — their lungs are as vulnerable as yours
Limit outdoor exercise when AQI exceeds 100 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups)
Keep rescue inhaler and allergy medication on hand

🚗 Your Wildfire Evacuation Plan

Know your county's evacuation zones and sign up for emergency alerts (Wireless Emergency Alerts are automatic)
Identify TWO exit routes — fires can cut off roads fast
Keep your gas tank at least half full May–October
Keep a go-bag packed and by the door throughout fire season
Know your "go" trigger: if a fire is within 5 miles and wind is toward you — leave before you're ordered to
Register your out-of-area check-in contact — someone both family members can call
If you have livestock: know your animal evacuation route and have trailers arranged in advance