Emergency Preparedness for California Wildfires: Creating a Family Evacuation Plan and ‘Go-Bag’

The Importance of Wildfire Emergency Preparedness

In California, wildfires are a recurring and often unpredictable threat. Being prepared with a well-defined evacuation plan and an emergency “go-bag” is not just recommended, it’s essential for the safety of your family. Having a plan ensures that you know what to do, where to go, and what to take with you when an evacuation order is issued. Without a plan, panic and confusion can set in, putting your family at greater risk. Proper planning significantly increases your chances of a safe and orderly evacuation, which will minimize stress and confusion during a time of great crisis. It’s important to have your plan in place before a wildfire starts, so you are not trying to make critical decisions during a stressful time.

Emergency preparedness is not just about having a go-bag; it’s also about communication, coordination, and practicing your plan to ensure everyone knows their role. Preparing for a wildfire takes planning, but it will help you and your loved ones feel safer knowing you are prepared. This is a vital step for all families living in a fire-prone area.

Creating a Family Evacuation Plan

Developing a comprehensive family evacuation plan involves several key steps:

• Identify Escape Routes: Know at least two ways to leave your neighborhood in case your primary route is blocked. Be sure to have backup plans, so you are not trapped during an emergency.
• Designate a Meeting Place: Choose a safe location outside of your immediate area where your family can meet if you are separated during an evacuation. Ensure this location is well known to all family members.
• Establish Communication Methods: Determine how your family will communicate if you are not together, especially if cell service is unreliable. Consider using text messaging and group apps in addition to phone calls.
• Practice Drills: Regularly practice your evacuation plan with your family, so everyone knows what to do in an emergency. Time how long it takes to complete the drill so you are sure you know how to quickly leave your home if necessary.
• Plan for Pets: Include your pets in your evacuation plan. Be sure that you have all of their needs covered and that they are prepared as well.

A well-thought-out evacuation plan will save valuable time during an emergency, and will help all of your loved ones feel more safe and secure.

Assembling Your Wildfire ‘Go-Bag’

A ‘go-bag’ is a portable kit with essential supplies that you can grab quickly during an evacuation. Here’s a list of items to include:

• Water: At least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. It is also wise to have extra water available if you can.
• Non-Perishable Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods such as canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruit. Be sure that these foods are easily portable.
• First-Aid Kit: A well-stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need. Always be sure that your first aid kit is up to date.
• Flashlight and Extra Batteries: A reliable flashlight and extra batteries, and consider a hand-crank flashlight, so you do not need to rely on batteries.
• Multi-Purpose Tool: A multi-purpose tool or knife that can be used in a variety of situations.
• Battery-Powered Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay informed about emergency alerts.
• Cell Phone Charger and Power Bank: A fully charged power bank and cell phone charger to keep your devices working.
• Copies of Important Documents: Copies of your driver’s license, insurance cards, birth certificates, and other important documents in a waterproof bag.
• Cash: Some cash in small denominations, as ATMs may not be accessible during an emergency.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal care items.
• Warm Clothing and Blankets: Extra clothing, socks, and blankets, as the weather can change unexpectedly.
• Whistle: A whistle to signal for help if needed.
• Map: A paper map of your area in case GPS is not working or you do not have cell service.
• Pet Supplies: Food, water, leash, and any medications for your pets, and be sure that they also have proper identification tags.

Pack your go-bag in a durable, easy-to-carry backpack or container and store it in an accessible location. Review and update your go-bag at least twice a year to ensure that food and medications are not expired. This is a vital task to perform each year.

Storing and Maintaining Your Go-Bag

Your go-bag should be stored in a place that is easily accessible, such as a coat closet, or near an exit door, and everyone in the family should know where it is located. It should be checked and updated regularly. Be sure to replace any expired or used items. This preparation will save you valuable time when an emergency occurs. Regular upkeep is the key to keeping your family safe.

Communicating Your Plan

Ensure that everyone in your family understands the evacuation plan and knows where the go-bag is stored. Practice your evacuation plan regularly to ensure your family is prepared and knows what to expect. This will help minimize fear and confusion, so your family can evacuate safely.

Planning for the Future: Protecting Your Family’s Legacy

While having a solid evacuation plan and go-bag are critical, planning for the long-term by having a will in place, is also imperative.

Additional Resources

Local emergency agencies and organizations such as the American Red Cross offer resources and training programs to help you plan for emergencies. Utilize these programs to ensure that your family is fully prepared for a wildfire emergency. The more prepared you are, the safer you will be.