Over the last several days, Santa Rosa has experienced hot and dry weather with temperatures into the triple digits. These conditions have further dried out our already drought-stressed vegetation and fuels, especially those in and around our Wildland Urban Interface. Fall is only a few weeks ago and without significant wetting rains, the potential for destructive wildfires increases during that time of year. 

A wildfire can occur without warning and evacuation orders can be issued quickly. You should be prepared to take the necessary steps to help increase your chances for an efficient and safe evacuation. It’s important to know what to do when it’s time to go.

If a wildfire is occurring in your area, monitor your surroundings and keep up to date with local official information. If you don’t feel safe, there’s no reason to stay and wait for an evacuation order or warning, especially if you require additional time to evacuate due to physical limitation or special needs. In Santa Rosa, our Know Your Alerts program is designed to keep you informed and set to receive emergency information. This includes the City’s website, social media accounts, local television channels, local radio stations and NOAA weather radios. By now, you should already be signed up to receive emergency alerts through SoCoAlert.

Being prepared to evacuate incudes placing your emergency supply kit and other predetermined needs and valuables in your vehicle. Prepare your home, yourself, and family following your evacuation check list which includes the following steps:  

• Move patio or deck furniture, cushions, door mats and potted plants either indoors or away from the home and decks. 
• Close and protect your home’s openings, including pet doors, windows and garage doors to prevent embers from getting into your home.
• Connect garden hoses and stretch them out so they are visible and accessible. Firefighters used garden hoses during the Glass Fire to put out small spot fires in landscaping and gutters. 
• Leave as early as possible. Do not linger once evacuation orders have been given. Promptly leaving your home and neighborhood helps clear roads for firefighters to get equipment in place to fight the fire and helps ensure your safety and the protection of your property.

Visit srcity.org/WildfireReady and srcity.org/ReadySR to be prepared.