As hundreds of residents in Southern California had to be evacuated from their homes due to major wildfires in the area, the American Red Cross Bay Area, or ARCBA, would like to take this opportunity to pass on ways in which Bay Area residents can stay safe during this dangerous season.

More and more people in the Bay Area are making their homes in woodland settings, forests, rural areas and remote mountain sites. These homeowners and renters enjoy the beauty of the environment but face the very real danger of wildfire.

Wildfires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. Reduce your risk by preparing now before wildfire strikes. Meet with you family to decide what to do and where to go if wildfires threaten your area.

Follow the steps listed below to protect your family, home and property:

When Wildfire Threatens

If you are warned that a wildfire is threatening your area, listen to your battery-operated radio for reports and evacuation information. Follow the instructions of local officials.
Back your car into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of escape. Shut doors and roll up windows. Leave the key in the ignition. Close garage windows and doors, but leave them unlocked. Disconnect automatic garage door openers.
Confine pets to one room. Make plans to care for your pets in case you must evacuate.
Arrange temporary housing at a friend's or relative's home outside the threatened area.
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Wear protective clothing -- sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothing, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, and a handkerchief to protect your face.
Take your disaster supplies kit.
Lock your home.
Tell someone when you left and where you are going.
Choose a route away from fire hazards. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.

If You Have Time, Protect Your Home Inside

Close windows, vents, doors, Venetian blinds, or noncombustible window coverings, and heavy drapes. Remove lightweight curtains.
Shut off gas at the meter. Turn off pilot lights.
Open fireplace damper. Close fireplace screens.
Move flammable furniture into the center of the home away from windows and sliding-glass doors.
Turn on a light in each room to increase the visibility of your home in heavy smoke.

Outside

Seal attic and ground vents with precut plywood or commercial seals.
Turn off propane tanks.
Place combustible patio furniture inside.
Connect the garden hose to outside taps.
Set up a portable gasoline-powered pump.
Place lawn sprinklers on the roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Wet the roof.
Wet or remove shrubs within 15 feet of the home.
Gather fire tools.

Emergency Supplies

When wildfire threatens, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. Assemble a disaster supplies kit with items you may need if advised to evacuate. Store these supplies in sturdy, easy-to-carry containers such as backpacks, duffle bags, or trash containers. Include:

A three-day supply of water -- one gallon per person per day -- and food that won't spoil
One change of clothing and footwear per person and one blanket or sleeping bag per person
A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications
Emergency tools, including a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and plenty of extra batteries
An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash, or traveler's checks
Sanitation supplies
Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
An extra pair of eyeglasses
Keep important family documents in a waterproof container. Assemble a smaller version of your kit to keep in the trunk of your car