Survival guides · Disasters

After a Wildfire

WHEN TO USE THISGoing home after a fire. Ash, hot spots and weakened buildings stay dangerous for days.

1. Wait for the all-clear

   • Only when officials say it's safe.
   • Downed lines, smoldering ground, falling trees and burned-through floors are all still there.
   • A house that looks fine outside can be weakened inside.

2. Protect yourself from ash

   • N95 mask — cloth masks don't stop ash.
   • Long sleeves, long pants, gloves. Keep it off your skin.
   • Kids stay out of the ash.
   • Wet it before you sweep. No leaf blowers.
   Why

   Ash from burned houses and cars carries the chemicals of everything that burned — plastics, paint, batteries, metals.

3. Check the house

   • Outside first: walls, roof, chimney, gas and power lines.
   • Inside: feel walls for heat. Check the attic for smoke or embers.
   • No light switches until an electrician has checked.
   • Well water? Get it tested before you drink it.

4. Document, then throw out

   • Photograph everything before you clean — for insurance.
   • Throw out food, medicine and cosmetics exposed to heat, smoke or firefighting chemicals.
   • Call your insurer. Ask whether FEMA help is open for your area.

Sources: FEMA / Ready.gov · EPA Wildfire Smoke and Ash Cleanup

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.