- Taking simple actions now can help reduce wildfire impact on you and your community.
- Signing up for emergency notifications and having a wildfire emergency plan play a big part in helping to keep you and your family safe.
Wildfires can be emotionally distressing and can threaten life, livelihoods and property. Fortunately, there are things you can do to protect yourself and those you love.
What can you do?
You are invited to do any (or all!) of the actions below.
Sign up for your local emergency alert system.
Get lifesaving alerts and instructions during emergencies. You can sign up at the OR-Alert website and select the notifications you want to receive. Most county alerts are available in Spanish. When a wildfire is near and you feel unsafe, don’t wait for an evacuation order —evacuate immediately!
Be informed about evacuation levels
Evacuation orders are typically given by local sheriff's deputies, police or state police. Oregon evacuation levels are:
- Level 1: Be ready — Prepare, monitor and pack your valuables
- Level 2: Be set — Get set to evacuate at a moment’s notice
- Level 3: Go now! — Leave immediately
"Before the fire, I was always trying to do the most important things. Like documents, I have the documents of my children like birth certificates and passports altogether in folders in one place. It makes it easier for me. And in the car, I always keep about a quarter tank of gas and I’m always trying to be ready by keeping it well maintained.I always have flashlights and some clothing in the car for my child, because I have a small child. I also have an emergency kit for the child. For anything, be it a cut or an accident. Always.”
— Maria E.
Make a plan
You are encouraged to create an evacuation plan that includes:
- A designated emergency meeting location away from the wildfire area.
- Multiple escape routes.
- Pets and large animals.
- Someone you can call or message who lives outside of the affected area. It’s a good idea to practice the plan before a wildfire happens.
Prepare an emergency supply kit
Keep an emergency supply kit in an easy-to-grab location like a garage. An emergency supply kit may include:
- At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food and water per person (and pet).
- Prescriptions or special medications.
- A change of clothing.
- Sanitation supplies like a toothbrush.
- A charger for cell phones.
- Copies of important documents. These may include a driver’s license, Social Security card, passport, titles, insurance policy information and tax records.
If you are impacted by a wildfire, you may be eligible for:
- Programs run by state and local agencies.
- Aid from groups like the Red Cross.
- Cash assistance and other short-term services from volunteer and church groups. Services can include crisis counseling or disaster legal services. This assistance is offered to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens and residents alike.
This assistance is offered to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens and residents alike.
Insure your home and belongings
You can receive financial assistance after a wildfire if you have home or renter's insurance. Ensure you have the right amount and types of insurance coverage by conducting an annual review with your insurance agent or company. Make an inventory of your belongings by taking photos or videos and writing a brief description of the contents of your home.
Resources
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