Should homes be threatened by wildfire, occupants may be advised to evacuate to protect them from life-threatening situations. Homeowners, however, do have the right to stay on their properties if they so desire and so long as their activities do not hinder fire fighting efforts. If occupants are not contacted in time to evacuate or if owners decide to stay with their homes these suggestions will help them protect their properties and families.

● Evacuate, if possible, all persons and pets not essential to protecting the home.

● Contact a friend or relative and relay your plans

● Make sure family members are aware of a prearranged meeting place

● Tune to a local radio station and listen for bulletins

● Place vehicles in garage, have them pointing out, and roll up windows

● Place valuables papers and mementoes in car

● Close garage door, leaving it unlocked and electric door opener set to open manually

● Place combustible patio furniture in house or garage

● Shut off propane or natural gas service at tank or meter

● Wear only cotton or wool clothing. Proper attire includes long pants, long sleeves shirt or jackets and boots. Carry gloves, neckerchief to cover face, water to drink and goggles

● Close all exterior vents

● Prop a ladder against house so fire fighters have easy access to roof

● Attach water hoses to all faucets with nozzles set to "spray"

● Soak rags, towels or small rugs with water to use in beating out embers and small fires

● Inside, fill bathtubs, sinks, and other containers with water. Outside, do the same with garbage cans and buckets

● Remember that water heaters and toilet tanks are available sources of water

● Close all exterior doors and windows

● Close all interior doors

● Open fireplace damper, but place screen over the hearth to prevent sparks and embers from entering the house

● Leave a light on in each room

● Remove lightweight and non fire resistant drapes from around windows.

● If available, close fire resistant drape, shutters or blinds. Attach pre cut plywood panels to exterior windows and glass doors

● Turn off all pilot lights

● Move overstuffed furniture to center of room

● Keep wood shake or shingle roofs moist by spraying with water. Do not waste water

● Consider placing a lawn sprinkler on the roof if water pressure is adequate. Do not turn on until embers begin to fall on roof

● Continually check the roof and attic for embers, smoke or fire