When you hear that a fire is near you, you may receive an evacuation alert to prepare. Always watch the news, local emergency updates, and official alerts. Keep your go-bag and essentials ready or in the car. It is better to be prepared than to panic when you need to go. Make sure you have masks, preferably N95 masks or respirators. Keep your windows closed. It is usually safer to leave early if officials warn that your area may be at risk.

If you receive an evacuation order, you may have very little time. Do not go back for your belongings. Leave immediately, and make sure everyone is with you and safe. Grab your go-bag if it is ready.

If you are in a building that is burning, stay low to avoid breathing in too much smoke. Use the stairs or fire stairs if there is a safe path. Never take an elevator. If you can, leave by the safest exit, follow others, or get to a visible safe area. Before opening a door, check the handle with the back of your hand. If it is hot or smoke is coming from underneath, do not open it.

If there is no safe exit, stay calm, close the doors to seal out as much smoke as possible, and call for emergency services immediately. Be sure to state your location, floor number, and prominent landmarks. Do not hide under a bed or in a closet.

However, if you are not able to find a safe exit, your last resort is to use a window only if it is a safe, low emergency exit.

Assist others if it is safe to do so, and try to stay with your group. If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop, and roll. Do not run or wave your arms, because that can feed the flames. Remember, your goal is not to save every object, but to get out alive.