Wildfire Evacuation Guide: Reduce Fear When Disaster Strikes

What to do when all is lost and your world is ending

Photo by Caleb Cook on Unsplash

We live in a new reality.

We live in a world where wildfires and structure fires meet in the middle of your street, where a wildfire can jump a lake, and entire cities can be evacuated.

It’s a world of uncertainty and it’s almost inevitable that it will happen to you or someone you love. How do you prepare? What do you do when everything changes in an instant?

You’ve been evacuated. What now.

A common sense guide to recovery after a disaster

1. Take stock

You’re sitting in a safe(er) space. Perhaps it’s a friend's house or a hotel room. Maybe you’re in an evacuation center, a shelter, or a campground.

What tools and supplies do you have?

You might have a go bag. You might have an emergency supply kit. It might contain some useful things. It might also contain some silly things you packed in a hurry, thinking they were important. Not to worry. Have a good look at what you have that might be useful.

2. What do you need?

List the important things, like copies of insurance documents, medications, food, and clothing. If you have these, pat yourself on the back.

You might need financial support. Or spiritual support, or both. You might need a hug from a friend. It’s important to recognize what you need. When someone offers help, you’ll know what to ask for.

3. Focus on the positive

You’re safe. You’re in touch with friends and family and they’re also safe. Safety is the primary goal of the evacuation.

There are people offering to help.
The emergency responders and firefighters are working hard to keep your community and home safe.

Remind yourself that people are more important than things. Focusing on this can help shift your perspective away from the immediate inconveniences.

Stay in touch with family and friends, even if it’s just through text or a quick phone call. Hearing familiar voices can be comforting and reassuring.

4. Knowledge is power

Keep yourself informed about the status of the wildfire and evacuation orders. Follow updates from local authorities and emergency services. Knowing that you are following a well-structured plan can provide reassurance.

Get copies of your insurance policies. Read the fine print. Know your rights.

Stay informed, but don’t obsess. Too much news about the wildfires can increase anxiety. Set specific times to check for updates and limit your exposure to distressing images or stories.

5. Self-care

Lean on your family and community. Help each other, support one another emotionally, and share resources. Building a sense of unity can make the situation feel less overwhelming.

Stop doomscrolling disaster news. (I can’t say this enough).

Fight or flight is great in the moment, but you have to find a way to reset your nervous system. This is good for everyone, even those who aren’t a part of the evacuation. When you witness a disaster, it affects you.

Use mindfulness exercises to stay present and calm. Deep breathing and meditation techniques can help reduce anxiety and maintain a positive mindset. Focusing on your breath can ground you in the present moment.

Use positive affirmations to boost your morale. Repeating phrases like “I am safe,” “I am resilient,” or “I can handle this” can help reframe your thoughts.

Get moving. Physical activity helps reduce stress. Movement releases energy and raises your vibration. Short walks, stretching, or yoga can help you relax and maintain a more positive mindset. Visit a local park. Check out the recreation center in your area.

6. Practice gratitude

Find something to be grateful for every day. Even during difficult times, there are things to be thankful for, even if they’re small.

Be grateful for the safety of your loved ones, the support of your community, and the dedication of firefighters and emergency responders.

Find ways to be helpful in your current situation. Helping others in times of crisis can be incredibly uplifting. Offer assistance to those in need, and you’ll likely find a sense of purpose and positivity in providing support.

7. Focus on what you can control

Concentrate on the things you can control, such as supporting those around you. Let go of the things you can’t control, like the behavior of the wildfire itself.

8. Plan for the future

Consider the future beyond the evacuation. What will you do once it’s safe to return home? Having a plan for what comes next can help you maintain a positive outlook.

What if your home is destroyed? If you have insurance, they will ask you for a list of contents.

Create a spreadsheet and start listing your belongings. Go room by room. In your mind's eye, open every cupboard, every drawer, and closet. As you remember things, you can go back and add them. Ask your family to help you with this task. They will remember things differently and that can be a bonus.

9. Returning home

It’s more complicated than you think.

Before you can return to a disaster area, special crews will check to ensure that your neighborhood is safe. You’ll want a clear route in and out of the community in case of another evacuation. They will ensure that power is restored, downed lines and dangerous trees are removed and other safety concerns are addressed.

If you have power, drinkable water, and a home to return to, there are a few things you’ll want to take care of right away:

Take photos of all damage as you go. You will need to provide this to your insurance company if you make a claim. Take pictures of all discarded items.

If you’re cleaning ash and smoke or fire retardant-damaged items, wear appropriate protection equipment such as gloves and masks. Wash your hands frequently and take a shower after you are in contact with these substances.

Food

• If your power went out, the contents of fridges and freezers will be rotten.

• Any fresh food or opened packages should be disposed of. Food can be damaged by smoke and ash even if it’s not opened so check everything carefully.

• Canned goods and dry goods like flour, sugar, and spices, should be thrown out if it was opened, damaged by fire or smoke, stored in cardboard or foam containers (porous) or stored in a glass jar (the heat from the fire damages the seal).

• Rusted or dented cans are damaged. If in doubt, throw it out. Clean and disinfect all cans before opening them so you don’t contaminate the food.

Water damage

• There may be water damage if firefighters had to get close and personal while fighting fires near your home.

• Take steps to limit the growth of mold. Remove damaged or wet drywall.

• Disinfect as you clean. (Use a household bleach and water solution (1/2 teaspoon (2 mL) into 4 cups (1 L) of water).

• Dry all wet items asap and use a dehumidifier to take the moisture out of the air.

Clothing and belongings

• Throw out medicines and personal care products that were exposed to smoke or high temperatures, even if the package isn’t opened.

• Electronics, clothing, fabrics, carpets, and the inside surfaces of your home will require special attention.

10. Regroup and prepare

If your area is still under alert, it’s time to regroup. Pack a new emergency kit. You’ll know exactly what you need, now that you’ve experienced an evacuation.

Take time to think about what’s important. It’s a great opportunity to reset. It’s a chance to begin again, with a different perspective.

Spend time thinking about what truly matters to you. Consider what aspects of your life may need adjustment or improvement.

Reflect on your relationships with friends, family, and significant others. Are there any changes you’d like to make to strengthen these connections or create healthier boundaries?

Consider decluttering your physical space and your schedule.

Seek opportunities to grow. This could involve acquiring new skills or exploring new hobbies.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help. from friends, family, mentors, or professionals if needed. Talking to someone can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

The process of reflection and resetting is ongoing. It’s not a one-time event but a continual journey to align your life with your values and aspirations.

---

Some cool things I’m enjoying

Quality sound for your meditation practice
Struggling with your marketing? Check this out.
The healthiest thing you can do for your body this week. Seriously.

Photo by Justin Lim on Unsplash