Wildfire Preparedness

Res Flag Warning Thursday PM - Saturday PM

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for most of the Bay Area, from Thursday, October 17 to Saturday, October 19. Strong, "Diablo" offshore winds, critically dry fuel conditions and low relative humidity are forecasted, creating a trifecta for extreme wildfire conditions.

Fire agencies are directing all residents, gardeners, contractors, and visitors to avoid certain activities during this time frame.

What Activities Should We Avoid During Red Flag Events?

Do not use any open fire-pits.

Do not use any source of heat or open flame outdoors, including: tar or asphalt torches, welders, grinders, cooking/BBQ devices, chain saws, power tools (gas or electric), mowers or weed whackers.

Avoid driving or parking in dry grass or vegetation.

What To Do During A Red Flag Warning?

Review your wildfire evacuation checklist.

Walk around the outside of your house and clear away anything combustible, by either bringing it inside your home or relocate it to a minimum of 30ft away from any structures including:

Remove leaves from roofs, gutters, and around the base of structure walls.
Relocate combustible lawn furniture and all cushions.
Relocate or remove wood piles or combustible debris near structures or from underneath decks.
Relocate potted plants from near your structures.
Relocate flammable doormats.
Close all windows and skylights if you are traveling out of town.
Ensure you are prepared to relocate your family and pets in the event of a wildfire and necessary evacuation, and keep your evacuation go-kits nearby.
Ensure your car has a full tank of gas or is fully charged and parked outside your garage in case there is a power outage.
Ensure your cell phone is charged and monitor phones for emergency alerts.
Ensure any automatic gates are in the open position in case there is a power outage.
Maintain a subscription to SMC Alert, Genasys Protect and Watch Duty.

https://www.smcgov.org/dem/smc-alert

https://protect.genasys.com/download

https://app.watchduty.org/

What Is The National Weather Service Forecast?

Wind north and northeast 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.
Gusts up to 65 mph along ridge tops and the highest terrain.
Relative humidity dropping as low as 10%.

Why Should We Be Concerned By A Red Flag Warning?

The combination of gusty winds and low humidity can cause a fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity.

What Are The Precautionary/Preparedness Actions?

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly and can contribute significantly to extreme fire behavior.
Remain vigilant, and if you see any dangerous activities during the Red Flag event, mitigate them if on your property.
If you see something say something and contact the non-emergency SMC dispatch number at (650) 363-4963 or your local Fire Agency.

Your wildfire preparedness should begin with personal safety and evacuation readiness, then Home hardening, then creating a Defensible Space around your home. Follow our links for tips to prepare your family and home.

wildfire prepered

A program if IBHS

Please access the entire document by clinking HERE.

Visit the veb site. https://wildfireprepared.org/

FIREWISE COMMUNITIES/USA® RECOGNITION PROGRAM

For more information, download the full document Firewise_Recognition_Procedures.pdf