Go! Evacuation Guide

Guidance for safe and efficient evacuation during wildfires.

packed trunk of car

Preparing for wildfire evacuation in California

The Go! Evacuation Guide is your vital resource for preparing and executing evacuation procedures during wildfire emergencies. It offers crucial information on pre-evacuation steps, handling power outages, evacuation methods, animal safety, and what to do if trapped.

Explore pre-evacuation actions below:

Pre-evacuation steps to take

How to protect your home before evacuating

If you have time before evacuating, follow these steps to give your home the best chance of surviving the wildfire:

Inside the house

Outside the house

Animals

Evacuation steps

When urgent evacuation is necessary, these steps will guide you to leave safely and quickly.

1 Review Evaluation Plan Checklist

Go over your Evacuation Plan Checklist often. Make sure it includes where to meet, who to call, and how to leave safely. Keep it updated so you’re always ready to move fast.

2 Monitor wildfire updates

Make sure you monitor wildfires in your area and know your community’s emergency response plan, evacuation orders, and evacuation centers.

3 Put ‘Go Bag’ in the car

Keep your Emergency Supply Kit in your car. It should include things like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and papers you need. This way, you’re always set to leave in a hurry.

4 Wear the right clothes

Dress to protect yourself in a wildfire. Wear clothes that cover your skin (100% cotton is best), like long pants and tops, and tough shoes. This helps guard you against heat and sparks.

5 Get pets ready to evacuate

Don’t forget about your pets. Make a plan for their safety. Have carriers, food, and water ready so they can leave quickly and safely with you.

How to prepare for power outages during wildfires

When wildfires strike, power outages are common. Along with the pre-evacuation steps above, here’s what you need to know to stay safe and prepared.

What to do if the power goes out

In the event of a power outage, especially during wildfire threats, it’s important to stay calm and follow these simple steps:

For more information and safety guidelines, check out these resources:

About public safety power shutoff (PSPS) events

A PSPS is when electric companies turn off power on purpose. This usually happens during very dry and windy weather to help prevent wildfires. The idea is to stop sparks from power lines or electrical equipment from starting a fire.

For more info on PSPS events in California, especially from major electric companies, check out these resources:

When to evacuate during a wildfire

If fire officials suggest evacuating, it’s best to leave right away. This helps you avoid danger and keeps roads clear for firefighters. In big wildfires, there’s no time for door-to-door warnings, so if you’re told to go, do it fast to stay safe.
Following evacuation orders:

Returning home safely

Being aware of hazards is crucial when you return home:

Animal Safety

Don’t forget your pets and livestock. With some advanced planning you can increase their chances of surviving a wildfire.

Livestock evacuation checklist

Livestock emergency supply kit

Please note: Firefighters focus on controlling wildfires and may not evacuate livestock. They might cut fences or open gates for trapped animals.

Pet evacuation checklist

Pet emergency supply kit

If you must leave your pet

Tips if trapped

Here’s what to do whether you’re in your vehicle, outside, or at home, focusing on calm and quick actions for your safety.

In your vehicle:

On foot:

At home: