10
Feb

Wildfires start and advance so quickly that a lot of people can find themselves caught outside. The first thing to do is to look for any sort of shelter, but most of the time there isn’t one. How can you survive when the fire surrounds you?

Call 911 If You Spot Smoke

You need to call in any signs of smoke or fire in your area. You know how easily wildfires start, and you want to do your part to prevent a small fire from turning into something much bigger.

Now you can start looking for an escape route. Consider the terrain and wind conditions to determine the best way from the fire. You may want to get back to your car, but sometimes, running in the opposite direction is going to be the safest one.

Seek a Space That Won’t Burn

Look for open spaces with minimal to no vegetation. You want an area that is unlikely to flame. The fire could surround you, but the flames won’t end up reaching you.

If there’s a river or a stream, get in as long as the current is safe. The fire won’t cross the water, so while things will get hot, you’ll be much safer from the flames that close in.

Did you know that an area that has already burned can be a safer spot? This isn’t about the myth of “lightning doesn’t strike the same place twice.” This is because “the black” is filled with vegetation that can’t burn easily anymore. Even if the winds change and the fire starts to move back, you’ll find a lot of firefighters prefer “the black” for their safe zones.

Do Not Soak Fabric in Water

While it could seem like a good idea to protect yourself from the flames, soaking fabric in water and wrapping it around you is one of the most dangerous things that you can do. The heat is a killer in wildfires, and that water that is wrapped around you is just going to turn into steam. You’ll end up with more burns on your body!

It’s different if you are in the middle of a river. The water won’t boil as much as the soaked fabric on you.

Thick wool blankets are the best to use if you happen to have them. Chances are you won’t when you’re caught outside, though. So, cover your body as best as you can in dry material and find those safe spots.

Lie Down with Your Mouth Close to the Ground

Can’t get anywhere safe? You need to make the most of the area you have. Find a ditch or a creek, if you can, and clear out all the vegetation that is flammable. Lay down and keep your mouth close to the ground.

Most people will die of smoke inhalation before the fire reaches them. By laying down close to the ground, you get the fresher air. Remember that heat and smoke rise!

It will feel like it takes forever, but most fires will pass within a minute. Fight the urge to panic and you have a better chance of survival.

If you’re in a vehicle instead, read our guide on what to do if you’re caught in a car during a wildfire.

What is the safest place if you’re caught outside in a wildfire?
Look for areas with little to no vegetation, such as gravel lots, roads, or previously burned ground.

Should you lie down during a wildfire?
Yes, if you can’t escape, lying low helps you breathe cleaner air since smoke rises.

Can you survive a wildfire in a river?
Yes, if the current is safe. Water can act as a barrier against flames and radiant heat.