About Wildfire Safety

The International Fire Chiefs Association promotes the “READY, SET, GO” program.  This program is used by local fire departments and law enforcement agencies to help communities prepare for wildfire and provide instructions in the event of a wildfire.  

READY: This is the planning step that is done well in advance of the threat of wildfire.  It includes:

• Creating an emergency plan for your family
• Preparing a go-bag
• Downloading information apps
• Improving your home’s defensible space and vulnerability to flying embers by clearing vegetation and hardening your home.

If you have only one evacuation route or your routes could become blocked with heavy traffic or fallen trees/power lines, you may want to consider including a FORT  as an option for you and your possessions.  

SET: The “READY” step prepares you for “SET” which is when a wildfire is possible.  Fire season can be year-round in some areas, but the information you receive from local news outlets, weather alerts, and the recommended applications downloaded during the “READY” step will help you know if/when you need to evacuate.  A fire threat warning may be issued for your area by the National Weather Service.

During this step, you put your family’s plan in motion.  Ensure your go-bag is by the door, your evacuation vehicle is ready to go, and you know how to open your garage door without electricity.  Any other steps you have in your emergency plan should be completed during this time, including placing any valuable items that cannot be carried in your evacuation vehicle in your FORT.  Local Resources will help you monitor the situation.

GO: Always adhere to local law enforcement instructions.  If you are ordered to evacuate, use the information you downloaded during the “READY” step.  If you are unable to evacuate due to blocked routes or downed trees/power lines, take refuge in your FORT.

For a complete overview of how to prepare for wildfire, go to California CalFire’s resource center.