On the way home, be aware of fallen debris, fires, fire crews, and equipment. Stay alert! Tune in to a local radio station for up-to-date fire information (usually an AM station).
When you arrive, your house and yard may be covered with ash and still have live embers present. Wear boots, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when returning home after a fire. You may want a dust mask as well.
First, be aware of charred trees and power poles surrounding your home – they may not be stable. Spot fires and smoldering debris could flare up without warning. Live power lines may be on the ground. Look for ash pits (holes created by burned trees filled with hot ash); people or pets could fall in and be seriously hurt.
