Situation · Wildfire

There's a fire nearby: be ready to leave early.

If you live near woodland or scrub, wildfire is one of the biggest risks in summer. Preparation starts long before, with the house and its surroundings, and on the day it comes down to leaving early if you're told to.

If you're asked toLeave straight away

CarFacing the exit

Around the houseFirebreak strip

SmokeProtect your breathing

What to do now See the guides

Step by step

What to do, and when

Follow official warnings and get ready to leave: bags, documents and animals.If you're ordered to evacuate, leave straight away by the route they tell you.Close doors and windows as you leave.

If the authorities ask you to stay at home, close doors, windows and ventilation, and stay in the part of the house furthest from the fire.Keep informed by radio.Keep the car parked facing the exit, with a full tank.

Don't go back until the authorities say so.Check the house carefully: embers, cables and structures.Protect your breathing from smoke and ash.

Your margin

What decides how long you can hold out

How far away the fire is and the wind direction.

The time to leave: minutes, not hours.

Smoke, especially for children, older people and people with asthma.

Frequently asked questions

What people ask most

What is a firebreak strip?

An area around the house with no dry vegetation, firewood or materials that burn. It helps stop the fire reaching the house. Check your region's regulations, which set specific distances.

Should I stay to defend the house?

No. If the authorities ask you to evacuate, leave. No house is worth your life or the lives of the emergency teams who would have to come and get you.

What do I do with the animals?

Include them in the plan: carrier or lead to hand, food and water. If you have livestock, ask your council what the emergency plan provides for.

How do I protect myself from smoke?

Close up the house, avoid going out and wear an FFP2 mask if you have to be outside. Cloth masks don't work against smoke.

To read later

Guides to help you prepare

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