Risk library
Wildfire
Prepare the home-wildland interface and evacuation decisions.
Wildfire preparedness combines early alerting, defensible space, safe evacuation behavior and knowing when a solid, cleared home may be the safer shelter if no evacuation order is given.
If authorities order evacuation, leave by the indicated route. Do not wait until the last moment and do not drive into smoke without instructions.
Alert signals
React early to smoke, ash and official instructions.
Wind, smoke and embers can change the situation quickly. A suspected fire, thickening smoke or ashfall should trigger attention and official information checks.
Call emergency services quickly if you see a suspicious fire start.
Watch smoke direction and wind changes.
Follow local authority, municipal and emergency messages.
Prepare documents, medication and essentials before the evacuation order.
Survival reflexes
Follow orders and protect yourself from heat and smoke.
The right choice depends on official instructions, fire direction, road safety and the condition of the home surroundings.
Evacuate when authorities ask you to.
If sheltering, close openings, shutters and vents.
Stay away from windows and wear covering cotton clothing.
Use a damp cloth for smoke only as a short-term aid, not as protection from toxic air.
Defensible space
Reduce fuel around the building.
Most prevention actions aim to break contact between vegetation, embers and the structure.
Move firewood, gas bottles, dry vegetation and combustible furniture away from facades.
Space tree crowns and prune low branches according to local rules.
Clean leaves, needles and dry debris from roofs and gutters.
Check vents, shutters and openings before fire season.
Household checklist
Check local vegetation-clearing obligations.
Move combustible storage away from the facade.
Clean gutters and inspect roof, vents, shutters and openings.
Prepare a family meeting point and essential documents.
Identify the safest room if sheltering becomes necessary.