How to Prepare for a Wildfire: The Ultimate Survival Guide

Wildfires are one of the most devastating natural disasters, with the potential to cause widespread damage to homes, ecosystems, communities, and even traditional and cultural heritages. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of droughts and extreme heat, the risk of wildfires is higher than ever. 

In this guide, we’ll equip you with the crucial knowledge of how to prepare for a wildfire, including up-to-date information on ongoing Los Angeles wildfire and practical steps for safeguarding your home and family as the disaster hits. Dive in now!

Latest Updates on Los Angeles Wildfires

As we all know, the Los Angeles area is currently experiencing one of the worst wildfire seasons in recent history. As crews battle multiple fires that have been raging for nearly a week, the situation remains critical. You may wonder where exactly are fires in Los Angeles? As of today, significant wildfires under strong winds are primarily actively burning the Palisades and the Eaton in the Los Angeles area. This fire complex is regarded as one of the most destructive in California’s history.

So how has the wildfire in Los Angeles impacted residents? By now, the Los Angeles wildfires have claimed the lives of at least 27 individuals, ruined over 12,000 buildings, and scorched more than 60 square miles. Thousands of people have been displaced, with more than 92,000 residents of Los Angeles County under mandatory evacuation orders. Additionally, nearly 89,000 people are under evacuation warnings, which means they could be asked to leave at a moment’s notice.

Collectively, the damage from fires continues to grow, and so are the Southern California containment efforts. As these blazes spread, it is a stark reminder of how unpredictable and deadly wildfires can be.

What Should You Prepare Before a Wildfire Starts?

As the stark reality of the Los Angeles fire continues to unfold, it’s important to recognize that preparedness is key to surviving and mitigating the impact of these disasters. Below are some essential items and steps to prepare for wildfires and ensure you're ready in the event of a wildfire.

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for treating injuries, burns, or medical emergencies during an evacuation. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, burn cream, gauze, pain relievers, and any prescription medications. Make sure it’s easily accessible and that everyone in your household knows where it is, especially during an emergency.

Non-Perishable Food and Water

Pack enough non-perishable food and water to last at least 72 hours. Choose foods that are easy to prepare and have a long shelf life, such as canned goods, protein bars, dried fruits, and instant meals. Water is crucial for hydration and sanitation, so store a gallon per person per day.

Clothing

When preparing for a wildfire, clothing should be protective and practical. Choose long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and sturdy shoes to guard against heat, smoke, and debris. Fire-resistant or natural fabrics like cotton are ideal. Pack extra clothes for all family members, including layers for warmth in case of evacuation delays.

Flashlight

A reliable flashlight is vital for navigating in the dark if wildfire power outages occur. Opt for an LED flashlight that’s durable and provides strong illumination. Make sure to stock up on extra batteries or use rechargeable flashlights to ensure you’ll have light during an extended power outage or evacuation period.

Power Banks and Charging Options

During a wildfire, access to power can be limited, so having emergency power for wildfire power outages, such as charged power banks, is essential for keeping phones and emergency devices operational. Choose high-capacity power banks that can charge multiple devices, like the Anker Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank (250W). Solar-powered chargers can also be beneficial for prolonged outages when traditional power sources are unavailable.

Important Documents

Gather critical documents in a waterproof container to protect them during an evacuation. These should include identification (passports, driver’s licenses), insurance papers, medical records, financial information, and any legal documents. Having these in one place will streamline the evacuation process and ensure important records are preserved.

Evacuation Routes and Transportation

Plan and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes ahead of time. Know multiple routes out of your area in case one is blocked by fire or debris. Keep your vehicle fueled and ready for evacuation. Make sure your family knows the plan and can quickly access transportation to leave without delay if needed.

What Should You Do during a Wildfire?

Wildfires can escalate quickly, so knowing what actions to take in the event of one is essential for your safety. Here are steps to follow during a wildfire. Remember to remain calm, get prepared, and follow safety guidelines, to help minimize risk during a wildfire emergency.

Stay Informed: Constantly monitor emergency alerts, local news, and weather apps for updates on the wildfire's progression. Use reliable sources such as government emergency sites or apps to track evacuation routes and real-time conditions.

Evacuate Early: When a wildfire approaches, evacuate immediately if advised by authorities, reducing the risk of getting trapped in traffic or hazardous conditions. Pack your emergency bag with essentials like identification, medications, a flashlight, important documents, clothing, and a large-capacity power bank like the Anker Prime Power Bank (9.6K, 65W, Fusion).

Create Defensible Space: If evacuation isn’t possible, create a defensible space around your property by clearing dry vegetation, leaves, or branches that can catch fire. Keep trees and shrubs pruned and remove any debris in gutters or on rooftops.

Seal Gaps and Close Windows: Close all windows, doors, and vents to prevent smoke from entering. Seal any gaps with damp cloths or towels if necessary.

Stay Indoors and Protect Your Breathing: If the fire reaches nearby, stay indoors with the windows and doors closed. Use air purifiers to filter out smoke. If you don’t have an air purifier, cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to help filter smoke particles.

How to Evacuate during a Wildfire

When evacuation is required, do so calmly but swiftly. Gather your emergency kit, pets, and any important documents—things you cannot easily replace. Don't forget chargers for your devices, especially power banks. If possible, avoid using your car's air conditioning system, as it could draw in smoke. Be mindful of the evacuation routes and try to leave early, as traffic can quickly become congested in fire-affected areas.

Before leaving, check the local news and official evacuation instructions to ensure you’re following the safest route. Avoid shortcuts or unfamiliar roads, as they may be blocked or unsafe. If you’re in an area where fire crews are actively fighting the blaze, follow any guidance they provide. It’s better to err on the side of caution and evacuate sooner rather than wait too long.

When to Evacuate during a Wildfire

Evacuating during a wildfire can be challenging, but knowing when to leave is critical for your safety. If the fire is approaching your area and you have been issued an evacuation order, leave immediately—delaying could result in being trapped. Even if an order hasn't been given yet, if you notice changes in wind direction or increased smoke, be ready to leave at any time. Pay attention to local authorities and always err on the side of caution.

In some cases, the fire's behavior can change rapidly due to shifting winds or other environmental factors. If you notice the fire is growing closer or if you hear emergency sirens, start preparing to leave. The sooner you evacuate, the less likely you are to encounter traffic jams or roadblocks. If you feel your safety is at risk, do not wait for an official notification—take action and leave immediately.

Practical Tips If You’re Trapped

If you find yourself trapped by a wildfire, it's essential to stay calm and make strategic decisions. Below are several key tips to help you survive if you’re stuck in a wildfire situation:

Stay Low to the Ground: Smoke rises, so if you’re in an area with heavy smoke, crouch or lie down. This will help you avoid inhaling harmful smoke and gases. Stay low until the air improves or you can safely move.

Find Shelter in a Safe Location: Look for a sturdy building, a car, or a concrete or metal structure. Avoid wooden sheds, as they can catch fire quickly. If you have a car, stay inside with the windows closed.

Cover Your Nose and Mouth: Use a damp cloth, scarf, or shirt to cover your nose and mouth to filter out smoke and debris. This helps reduce smoke inhalation.

Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly to keep your body hydrated. If you don’t have water, avoid exerting yourself too much to conserve your energy.

Signal for Help: If you're unable to evacuate, signal for help using a whistle, mirror, or any available reflective object to attract the attention of rescuers. If you have a phone with service, call 911 or emergency services immediately, providing your location and any landmarks to help rescuers find you quickly.

Conclusion

Now you know how to prepare for a wildfire, which is your first line of defense in minimizing the risks wildfires pose. By creating an emergency kit, staying informed, and having an evacuation plan, you can ensure the safety of yourself and your family. During a wildfire, swift action and knowledge of what to do can make all the difference. With proper planning, you’ll be better equipped to handle this unpredictable and dangerous natural disaster, giving you peace of mind when it matters most.

FAQs

How do you prepare for a wildfire?

Preparing for a wildfire involves several key steps. Start by creating an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, first-aid supplies, important documents, and power sources like the Anker Power Bank (25K, 165W, Built-In and Retractable Cables). Develop an evacuation plan for your family, including routes and meeting points. Keep your property defensible by clearing flammable debris and trimming trees, and stay informed about local fire risks through apps and news alerts. Always be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice if necessary.

What are the 6 P's of preparedness?

The 6 P's of preparedness are essential guidelines to help individuals prepare for emergencies, particularly during evacuations. They are:

People and Pets: Ensure safety and transportation.

Papers: Gather important documents.

Prescriptions: Collect medications.

Photos and Personal Items: Take irreplaceable items.

Personal Computers: Include laptops or data storage. Remember to put a large-capacity power bank, such as the Anker 548 Power Bank (PowerCore Reserve 192Wh), to meet your charging needs.

Plastic: Bring credit cards and cash for purchases.

What to pack for wildfire evacuation?

When evacuating from a wildfire, pack only what’s necessary for survival and safety. Start with essential documents such as IDs, insurance, and medical records. Include non-perishable food, at least three days’ worth of water, a first-aid kit, medications, and a flashlight. Don’t forget clothing, sturdy shoes, and your phone charger or power banks like the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W). If you have pets, pack food, water, and a carrier. Prioritize the items that you can’t easily replace and leave quickly accessible.