Wildfires

Wildfires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. Reduce your risk by preparing now — before wildfire strikes. Meet with your family to decide what to do and where to go if wildfires threaten your area.

In the case of a wildfire, what should I do?

Contact the Cherokee County Fire Department at 678-493-4000 for information concerning local fire laws.

Other suggestions

Make sure the fire department can find your home. Clearly mark your driveway with name and address.

Report hazardous conditions that could cause a wildfire.

Teach children about fire safety. Keep matches out of reach of children!

Plan several escape routes from your community by car and foot.

Talk to you neighbors about wildfire safety.

Create a 3- to 50-foot safety zone around your home.

Regularly clean roof and gutters.

Inspect chimneys twice a year.

Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs and clear flammable vegetation.

Remove dead branches and shrubs within 15 feet of your home.

Follow local burning regulations.

Are you ready?

Know your wildfire risk.

Make a wildfire emergency plan.

Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to evacuate.

Stay tuned to your phone alerts, TV, or radio, for weather updates, emergency instructions or evacuation orders.