Forest Fire
Wildfires often begin unnoticed. These fires are usually triggered by lightning or accidents.
According to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry:
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33% of wildfires are started by people who are careless with their campfires
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25% of wildfires are started by people burning grass, brush, or rubbish
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5% of wildfires are started intentionally
Wildfires can often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes.
Before a Fire
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Clearly mark all driveway entrances and display your address so that fire vehicles can easily find your home.
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Practice evacuating your home. Teach all household members the technique of 'stop, drop and roll' in case clothes catch on fire.
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Install smoke detectors and sprinklers on every floor and by all sleeping areas.
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Plan several escape routes away from your home by car and by foot.
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Create a safety zone around your home. Modify or eliminate brush, trees and other vegetation near your home.
During a Fire
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If you see a wildfire call 911. Don't assume that someone else has already called. Describe the location of the fire, speak slowly and clearly, and answer any questions asked by the dispatcher.
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Monitor local media for information and instructions, including possible road closures.
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If sufficient water is available, turn sprinklers on to wet the roof and any water-proof valuables.
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Park your car, positioned forward out of the driveway. Keep car windows closed and have your valuables already packed in your car.
If You Are Indoors
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If you are trapped inside your home by a wildfire, stay inside (unless advised by officials to evacuate) and move away from outside walls. Close doors, but leave them unlocked.
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Close windows, vents, and blinds. Remove lightweight curtains.
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Open the fireplace damper. Close fireplace screens.
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Turn a light on in each room to increase the visibility of your home in heavy smoke.
If You Are Advised to Evacuate
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Do so immediately. Bring your pets with you!
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Wear protective clothing and footwear to protect against flying sparks and ashes.
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Tell someone when you leave and where you are going.
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Choose a route away from fire hazards (monitor local media for information).
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Watch for changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.
If You Are Outdoors
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Do not try to outrun the blaze. Instead, look for a body of water such as a pond or river to crouch in.
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If there is no water nearby, find a depressed, cleared area with little vegetation.
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If a road is nearby, lie face down along the road cut or in the ditch on the uphill side. Cover yourself with anything that will shield you from the fire's heat (i.e. loose earth).
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Protect your lungs by breathing air closest to the ground, through a moist cloth, if possible, to avoid inhaling smoke.
After a Fire
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If you remained at home, check the roof immediately after the fire danger has passed. Put out any roof fires, sparks or embers. Check the attic for hidden burning sparks.
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For several hours after the fire, maintain a 'fire watch'. Re-check for smoke and sparks throughout the house.
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Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control. Hidden embers and hot spots could burn your pets' paws or hooves.
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If you have evacuated, do not enter your home until fire officials say it is safe to do so.
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Follow public health guidance on safe cleanup of fire ash and safe use of masks.