Bradley Sawyer
Risk Advisory Leader
When a wildfire is approaching your area, it's essential to stay calm and take quick action to protect yourself and your loved ones. Our experienced team is here to help you, every step of the way. Below are our recommendations before, during, and after a wildfire event.
Immediate actions:
Preparing your home in advance of a wildfire
(If time allows and you are not under evacuation orders, these next steps will help you ready your home, documents, and assets)
Stay informed: Monitor local news, emergency alerts and apps like WatchDuty for timely updates on the progress of the wildfire and for evacuation orders (local radio, NOAA, etc.). Follow Marsh McLennan Agency’s social media channels (LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter)) and check your email inbox for tips.
Assess your surroundings: Look for signs of smoke or flames in your neighborhood, and check wind direction to gauge whether the fire is moving toward or away from your home.
Document your home and property (if time allows): If there is time to do so safely and you are not under immediate evacuation orders, document your home, assets, and property. Take photographs or videos of each room in your home and the outside of your property.
Prepare for evacuation: Have your evacuation kit ready, including essentials like water, medications, identification, important documents, and a phone charger.
- Close windows and doors: Seal all windows and doors tightly to prevent smoke from entering your home.
- Turn off HVAC systems: Shut off any air conditioning or ventilation systems that draw in outside air, which could bring smoke inside.
- Move pets indoors: Bring pets inside and ensure they are safe and calm. Plan for your pets to stay with family or friends out of the area.
- Plan for your collections: If you have passion collections, such as fine art or other materials, consider taking them with you. Or, if time allows work with our fine art experts to arrange transport of your collection to a safe location.
- Locate fire extinguishers: Ensure fire extinguishers are easily accessible, fully functional, and fully charged.
Protecting your home:
- Create defensible space: If you have time, clear dry brush, leaves, and other flammable materials from around your home. Our team of risk mitigation specialist can advise clients in advance of a wildfire on best practices for hardening a property in the event of a wildfire.
- Move flammable items: Relocate patio furniture, firewood, and other combustibles away from your house.
- Turn on exterior lights: If the fire gets close, having lights on may help you see in the smoke or darkness.
- Soak outdoor areas: Use a hose or sprinkler system to wet down the grass and any combustible surfaces around your home.
- Close all vents and openings: Cover chimmneys, vents, and windows with non-flammable materials if possible.
