If You Choose to Stay . . . Stay Responsibly

Having decided to stay, whether you think your place is not threatened or because you intend to participate in the defense of your home, you need to think further about the following. Remember, a wildfire is a violent, complex phenomenon. It can change direction and speed in moments. The winds can blow embers for a mile or more from the main fire-front, leaping considerable distances and over obstacles. What may seem safe at one time may be threatened minutes later.

A wildfire close-up is dangerous and stressful even on observers. The heat, smoke and noise will saturate your senses and do some harm almost no matter what you do. Firefighters typically find that they have suffered "minor" burns in spite of, and sometimes right through their protective clothing. Their eyes, throats and lungs will be irritated and sore, sometimes taking days to return to "normal." Some residual damage may be permanent.

Do not subject anyone to this against their will. Do not permit anyone to subject themselves to this if they already have significant heart problems or a compromised respiratory system. Goggles or masks may protect eyes and lungs, but stress can get to a weakened heart despite any gear.