How to Survive a Forest Fire

As devastating as forest fires may look, they are a necessity in the environmental cycle. But if your home is in its path, preparation is the key to surviving a forest fire. Use these steps to learn what to do to stay ahead of the flames.

Instructions

• 1

  Protect your house and property from flames by removing any outdoor furniture or other flammable materials from the area. Get ready to evacuate, turn off all gas valves and pilot lights and turn on all indoor lights to help you see in the event smoke fills the house.

• 2

  Wet the roof, house and yard with a hose if you're near a forest fire. Soak any waterproof valuables as well. This may not keep the fire from spreading but slows it down.

• 3

  Use a piece of clothing or towel to put out any flames near you. Avoid using water to put out flames unless you have a large amount of water available to you. Small amounts of water like canisters or a bucket aren't effective in extinguishing flames as well as smothering them with cloth is.

• 4

  Know when to run away from the fire and not fight it. Fires can spread quickly; keep a careful eye on the fire and if it begins to overpower the area, move away from the flames.

• 5

  Keep escape routes open. Fires travel quickly in the same direction as the wind and uphill faster than downhill. Try to keep these areas to your back and available as a way out of the fire. Run towards a river or an empty clearing because these are considered natural firebreaks.

• 6

  Cover your face and mouth with a cloth if you need to move through the fire. If liquid is available, wet the cloth and run quickly.

• 7

  Stop, drop and roll as the firemen say. If your clothing or any part of you catches on fire, find a safe place to do those three things.