29 Aug New Cal Fire Campaign Urges Californians to Prepare ‘Go Bags,’ Make Evacuation Plan

An image for Cal Fire’s new “Set, Go” campaign launched on Monday shows a family evacuating during a wildfire. The new campaign encourages California residents to be prepared in case a wildfire evacuation takes place. (Cal Fire via Bay City News)

By Sarah Stierch
Bay City News

A new campaign urging Californians to be prepared for wildfire evacuations launched this week, Cal Fire said.

The “Set, Go” campaign starts with asking Californians to create a family wildfire action plan, which includes identifying escape routes, practicing evacuation drills, designating a safe meeting place, and assigning an out-of-area contact for family communications.

It continues by guiding residents on how to create an emergency supply kit, also known as a go bag, to take with them in case of evacuation.

Go bags should have non-perishable food, water, medications, important documents, flashlights, clothing, radios, chargers and pet supplies, Cal Fire said.

Finally, the campaign asks that Californians always be ready in case an evacuation is needed due to a wildfire.

This includes keeping sturdy shoes and a flashlight by one’s bed and having at least half a tank of fuel in one’s vehicle. Residents should also know how to shut off their home’s utilities.

The agency also asks residents to connect with their neighbors to ensure everyone is prepared in case of a fire emergency.

The “Set, Go” campaign comes as the state enters peak wildfire season.

Cal Fire says that families who have go bags and practice their evacuation plans are more likely to evacuate quicker and safely. It also reduces anxiety and stress associated with last-minute escapes due to fire threat.

“By encouraging Californians to plan, pack, and go early, the ‘Set, Go’ campaign emphasizes how preparation can make the difference between a safe evacuation and a dangerous situation,” Cal Fire said.

For more information on wildfire evacuation preparedness and safety, visit http://www.readyforwildfire.org.

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