If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately. If you wait until the last minutes, the roads may have heavy traffic, and blowing embers and debris from the fire may make it hard to see.

More tips to evacuate safely:

• Stay informed. Listen to TV/radio broadcasts for current weather and emergency instructions. Sign up to receive local emergency alerts and warnings on both your home and cell phones.
• Know your community's local evacuation plan. Plan ahead by practicing two ways out of your neighborhood. You should know the evacuation route and plan a place where you will go.
• Make sure everyone in your family knows your meeting place ahead of time. Let your family and friends who do not live in your area know your meeting place.
• Keep your car fueled and keep an emergency supply bag in your car. Back your car into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of escape.