/ first_moves
Do these first
/ failure_mode
How this plan fails
A cleaner room is not a plan for an active fire at the building. Evacuate immediately when officials order it or when fire, heat, or route loss makes staying dangerous.
/ avoid
Do not spend your first mistake here
- Waiting until ash, traffic, or darkness removes route choices.
- Vacuuming ash or stirring dust without protection during cleanup.
Wildfire creates two different problems: flame and smoke. Flame means evacuation when ordered or when staying becomes unsafe. Smoke means air control, respiratory protection, and reduced exposure.
Prepare the leaving path before it is dramatic. Put go-bags, documents, medication, pet carriers, chargers, and water where they can be loaded fast. Keep the vehicle fueled or charged when the threat is rising.
For smoke, pick a cleaner room. Close windows and doors, shut outside-air systems when appropriate, and use a portable air cleaner or well-filtered HVAC recirculation if available. A respirator helps only when it fits and is actually worn.
The hard rule: do not let a shelter plan trap you inside an active fire problem.