Wildfire community preparedness webinar
A free online session for individuals and community groups on wildfire preparedness. Covers defensible space, go-bag packing, understanding evacuation levels, how to sign up for emergency alerts, and how communities can coordinate for vulnerable residents.
Session agenda
What we cover on 10 February
Who it is for
- Residents in wildfire-risk areas (US, UK, Australia)
- Community group leaders and neighbourhood coordinators
- Local authority emergency planning teams
- Anyone who has never prepared a go-bag or evacuation plan
What you will leave with
- Defensible space zone checklist
- Go-bag contents checklist (72-hour household version)
- Evacuation level quick-reference card
- Guide to finding local emergency alert sign-up
- Recording link and all materials within 48 hours
Wildfire event FAQ
Questions about this session and wildfire preparedness
Yes. While wildfire risk is most acute in the western US and Australia, the UK has seen significant wildfire events — notably the Saddleworth Moor fire (2018) and increasing frequency of grassland fires during hot, dry summers. The session covers both contexts. UK participants will find the sections on go-bags, alert systems, and community coordination directly applicable, and the defensible space section covers both the CAL FIRE two-zone model and UK Firewise equivalents.
In US jurisdictions using the Ready / Set / Go model: a Ready notice means be aware and prepare to leave; a Set (Evacuation Warning) means leave if you have mobility limitations, dependants, or livestock — conditions could worsen rapidly; a Go (Evacuation Order) means leave immediately without delay. Do not wait for an Order if you received a Warning and your circumstances make quick departure difficult. In the UK, the UK Emergency Alert system and local authority emergency communications serve a similar function.
In the US, the National Interagency Fire Center publishes fire potential outlooks by region. CAL FIRE maps active California fires. FEMA's Flood Map Service Center now includes wildfire risk layers in some areas. In the UK, Natural England and local fire and rescue services provide advice on landscape fire risk in moorland and heath areas. The session on 10 February will cover how to find and interpret local risk information.
A go-bag should allow you to leave within 5 minutes and sustain you for 72 hours. Key items: government-issued ID (original or copies), medications (7-day minimum, 90-day if possible), phone charger and power bank, water (2 litres per person per day), food, first-aid kit, cash, change of clothing, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. Include pet supplies and animal transport equipment if relevant. Keep the bag near the door and review its contents every 6 months. See also our wildfire season readiness article for the full go-bag and preparation checklist.