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Health
Try to minimize smoke inhalation with a dust mask or bandana.
Keep windows and vents shut in your vehicle while driving away and set the air conditioner to re-circulate. Smoke exposure can cause coughing, a scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, runny nose, headache, or eye irritation. Children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions should take extra precautions. If you develop a painful cough or difficulty breathing that remains after the smoke has cleared, consult a doctor.
Getting Information
Specific information regarding evacuated areas, road closures, emergency situations, animal evacuations, and shelter locations can be found at the San Diego County Emergency website or on local radio and television stations.
Do not dial 911 to ask for information, such as if you should evacuate or what roads are closed. Only dial 911 to report emergencies.
Pets & Animals
Evacuate pets and livestock whenever possible. Take along animal first aid and emergency kits. Follow your disaster preparedness plans for pets and livestock that include transportation arrangements and a place to stay. Check the San Diego County Emergency website for animal evacuation information.
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Photo Courtesy of Cat Allison, Nevada Appeal. |
If you must leave your large animals, confine them in an area clear of vegetative fuel. Leave small animals in interior rooms without windows in your home. Leave 3 days of food and water for all animals. Never leave any animal chained outside. Leave a note for emergency and animal rescue crews letting them know the evacuation status of your animals. Pets and Livestock.
Photo Courtesy of Fire Safe Council of San Diego County
Where to Go
Follow your family disaster plan that includes evacuation routes and designated places to stay. Check the San Diego County Emergency Website, listen for media reports on your radio or television for road closure and shelter information. Choose a route away from the approaching wildfire.
If you become trapped by fire while in your car, park in an area clear of vegetation, close windows and vents, cover yourself with a blanket or jacket and lie on the floor. If you become trapped while on foot, select an area clear of vegetation or lie in a road ditch. Avoid canyons that can concentrate and channel fire.
Photo Courtesy of Fire Safe Council of San Diego County
For more information on what to take visit our Personal Preparedness section.
When to Leave
Photo Courtesy of Kenneth M. Greene,
Greene-Taffy Productions
When in doubt, don’t wait. Just go! Don't hesitate because fire can move rapidly, there may be traffic as well as smoky driving conditions and road obstructions. Pay attention to local official instructions and never ignore a mandatory evacuation order. No possession is worth a human life.
If you suspect a distant wildfire may eventually threaten your area, begin making preparation immediately in case evacuation becomes necessary. Play it safe and choose to evacuate earlier rather than wait. Evacuating earlier helps avoid the congestion and confusion that can occur during a last-minute evacuation.
What to Wear
Dress to prevent burns:
Photo Courtesy of livingwithfire.info
Universtiy of Nevada Cooperative Extension
What to Take
Follow your family disaster plan that includes an “In Case of Evacuation” list of important items to pack, such as 3-day emergency supply kits for each person, family valuables, important documents, and computer files.
Photo Courtesy of http://www.clallam.net.../html/disasterprep.htm
For more information on what to take visit
the Personal Preparedness section.
