The Last Open Road Is Not a Safe Evacuation Plan
A wildfire can turn an ordinary decision about when to leave into a narrowing set of options. Waiting until only one route remains makes a dangerous condition the trigger for action. By then, a road that was open may be crowded or unavailable.
Plan while there is room to choose. Know more than one way out, keep essential supplies ready, follow local alerts, and plan for people who need assistance and for animals. These steps cannot control a fire, but they can make an earlier departure possible.
If officials advise or order evacuation, follow their directions without delay. People who feel at risk may need to leave before an order arrives. Local authorities have the most current information about routes and danger in their area.
The decision affects more than one person. Waiting can leave family, neighbors, and responders with fewer safe options. The useful lesson is to prepare in advance and act while departure remains possible.