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When evacuation orders are lifted and residents prepare to return home, it’s crucial to have essential safety information. While first responders handle many risks, various post-fire hazards may occur when access your property. Specific dangers may arise after a fire, but first responders still manage many risks. hazards could result in ongoing health issues. We share this message as a helpful guide to keep you and your loved ones safe during this transition.

Body Protection / What to wear when you re-enter your property: 

• Jeans, boots, gloves, long sleeve shirt, dust mask (e.g., N95), and eye protection 
• NO SHORTS 
• NO OPEN-TOE SHOES OR FLIP FLOPS
• Caution when coming in contact with “cold” ash - it could potentially contain heated elements: 
• Work in pairs and avoid working alone 
• Avoid working in any ash-covered area for an extended period 
• Maintain strong “situational awareness” - be aware of what’s around you 
• Take precautions when working near or under trees that may be fire-weakened, limb may fall, and entire root systems can fail, causing trees to fall 

Traffic safety:

• Be aware of first responder apparatus, utilities, and media vehicle 
• Avoid bringing children and pets into traffic areas 
• Utilize maximum caution and restraint when operating a vehicle, as pedestrians may be distracted and not paying attention to their surroundings 

Caution when in and around damaged structures:

• Use appropriate shoes when walking in debris from damaged structures - there may be nails or other sharp objects 
• Use caution when walking on any property space, as there may be voids that you could trip over or fall into 
• Be aware of any standing structural components, including chimneys or other overhead hazards - they may be unstable and subject to collapse

Ash and other burned materials may contain chemicals hazardous to anyone - consider the following before departing your property post-fire:

• Wash your hands and boots before entering a vehicle or otherwise departing from the property 
• Avoid placing your hands on your face, mouth, eyes, ears, or neck before coming into contact with others, and even pets 
• Bring “wet” cleaning towelettes to wash yourself with Gently sweep debris followed by a wet mop; do not use a leaf blower to clean up 
• Do not use your garden hose to wash around a damaged home - it may send hazardous waste into sewers and storm drains

Safe Community Project: www.safecommunityproject.org

LEARN MORE AT: www.wildfirela.org