If time permits, prepare the house for exposure to embers and flames. This includes covering unscreened vents, moving combustible items (plastic pads for patio furniture, firewood piles, brooms, etc.) off the deck or away from the building, and closing all doors and windows.

It is important to remember that, in the right conditions, fire can travel very quickly, so it is necessary to continually monitor the position of the fire as you prepare. It is always safer to leave as early as possible, as this limits the possibility of getting stuck in traffic or being overtaken by the fire. The first step is to make sure everyone is ready to leave.

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