How to prepare for wildfire smoke, planned power shutoffs and evacuation: a go-bag list, clean air at home and what to do when the power goes out.
- Pack a go-bag before fire season and keep it by the door.
- N95-type respirators help with smoke. Cloth and surgical masks do not.
- Leave early when told. Sign up for local alerts.
Why wildfires cause outages
Fires can damage power lines, and in some areas utilities cut power on purpose during extreme fire weather to reduce the chance of lines starting a fire. Check whether your utility runs planned public safety shutoffs and how it notifies customers.
Build a go-bag now
- Water, snacks, medications and glasses
- Copies of ID, insurance and key papers
- Phone, charger and power bank
- Cash, spare keys and a printed contact list
- Masks: N95 or equivalent respirators help with smoke (cloth and surgical masks do not)
- Pet supplies and carriers
Evacuation plan
- Know two routes out and where you will go.
- Sign up for local emergency alerts. See alerts and outage reporting.
- Leave early when told. Do not wait for the power to go out.
- Park facing out, keep windows closed and car keys with you.
Clean air at home
When smoke is heavy, stay indoors with windows and doors closed. A portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter helps if you have power. Without power, a closed room and a well-fitted respirator are your options. Do not run a gas generator or grill indoors to stay warm or cook.
Power out during smoke
A backup battery can keep phones, a radio and a small fan or air cleaner running (check the watts). See how to size a power station. Check air quality with AirNow (US) or the Air Quality Health Index (Canada) before going outside.
Quick answers
Why would a utility cut power during a fire risk?
Some utilities turn power off on purpose in extreme fire weather to lower the risk of lines starting a fire. Check whether yours does.
Can I use a generator for an air cleaner?
Only outdoors for the generator, with the cord run to the device. Never run it indoors.