Evacuation Preparedness

WHEN THE WILDFIRE COMES, WILL YOU BE READY?

The geography, weather patterns and number of homes in the Wildland Urban Interface make the tri-county area susceptible to devastating wildfire. As wildfires continue to increase each year in Montana, make sure to protect yourself and your family – plan, prepare and stay aware. Property owners and residents in areas at risk are encouraged to take these steps to be ready in case an evacuation is ordered.

PLAN. PREPARE. STAY AWARE.

Get prepared for wildfire before it strikes by following Ready, Set, Go!

READY

Be Ready: Create and maintain defensible space and harden your home against flying embers.

SET

Get Set: Prepare your family and home ahead of time for the possibility of having to evacuate. Ensure you have a plan of what to take and where to go.

GO

Be Ready to Go!: When wildfire strikes, go early for your safety. Take the evacuation steps necessary to give your family and home the best chance of surviving a wildfire.
• Know your evacuation route. The following attachment and links provide information to area evacuation plans and information.

Helena Community Citizen Evacuation Guide

CITY OF HELENA EVACUATION MAP

Lewis and Clark County: Evacuation Assembly Areas and Evacuation Routes

ASSEMBLE AN EMERGENCY EVACUATION GO BAG

Put together your emergency supply kit long before a wildfire or other disaster occurs and keep it easily accessible so you can take it with you when you have to evacuate. Plan to be away from your home for an extended period of time. Each person should have a readily accessible emergency supply kit. Backpacks work great for storing these items (except food and water) and are quick to grab. Storing food and water in a tub or chest on wheels will make it easier to transport. Keep it light enough to be able to lift it into your car.

Emergency Supply Kit Checklist

Face masks or coverings
Three-day supply of non-perishable food and three gallons of water per person
Map marked with at least two evacuation routes
Prescriptions or special medications
Change of clothing
Extra eyeglasses or contact lenses
An extra set of car keys, credit cards, cash or traveler’s checks
First aid kit
Flashlight
Battery-powered radio and extra batteries
Sanitation supplies
Copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)
Don’t forget pet food and water!

Always keep a sturdy pair of shoes and a flashlight near your bed and handy in case of a sudden evacuation at night. For more information on emergency supplies, visit www.ready.gov