Emergency? Call 112 now. Dispatchers will guide you through these steps on the phone.
- Create defensible space: clear dry vegetation, gutters and firewood within 10 m (30 ft) of your home.
- Plan to leave early. Most deaths occur during late evacuations. Know two routes out and leave on official advice — or earlier.
- Pack the car in advance during high-fire-danger days with go-bag, documents, medications and pets.
- Protect against smoke: stay indoors with windows shut, run air purifiers, and use well-fitting N95/P2 masks outdoors.
- If trapped: call your emergency number, shelter in a building away from vegetation, close doors and windows, and stay low under smoke. In a car, park away from fuel, keep windows up, and cover yourself with a wool blanket.
Last reviewed October 22, 2026 against current public guidance from national resuscitation councils and Red Cross / Red Crescent first-aid manuals. General education only — not a substitute for certified training or professional medical advice. Medical disclaimer · Suggest a correction