Keeping Safe if Caught Near a Wildfire

Its a scenario that none of us want to be in, but considering the recent events in the Aude region and various wildfires over the last few years,  we need to consider how to keep safe if caught unawares. Fire can spread alarmingly quickly given the right conditions. so a list of dos and don’ts, priorities and strategies and things to bear in mind is extremely useful.

1. Do not try to outrun a wildfire on foot

• The steel body of a car provides some protection from flames, heat, and burning embers.

2. Prepare for a stay inside your vehicle

• Roll up all windows and close air vents.
• Turn on headlights and hazard lights to increase visibility in smoke.
• Engines may stall and be difficult to restart, and air currents may rock the car violently.
• Expect some smoke and sparks to enter the vehicle.
• The temperature inside your car will increase significantly.

3. If forced to stop

• Avoid parking near heavy trees and brush.
• Turn off the ignition and the headlights.
• Get as low as possible on the car floor and cover up with a blanket or coat.
• Stay in the vehicle until the main fire passes.

4. Emergency calls

• Contact the emergency services. Fire Service is 18. The French emergency services use Advanced Mobile Location (AML). This is atomically activated when an emergency call is made providing location via GPS or cell tower triangulation.
• France also uses the “What 3 words” app, this is worth downloading in advance.

5. Driving through smoke

• Avoid driving through heavy smoke if possible.
• If driving through smoke is unavoidable, keep windows and vents closed and turn the air conditioning on re-circulation mode to help minimize smoke inhalation.
• Drive slowly and carefully, being aware of other vehicles, pedestrians, and potentially panicked animals.
• Be prepared for reduced visibility.
• Use headlights and foglights to increase visibility to other drivers.

6. After the fire passes

• Attend to anyone who may be in shock or stressed.
• If the car is still operable, drive away from the fire to a safe area.
• If the car is not operational, evacuate on foot and seek help, remembering to avoid burning trees which may drop branches.
• If you leave your vehicle unattended, leave a note stating your safety and direction of travel if possible.

Important considerations

• Early evacuation is the best defense against being caught in a wildfire.
• Always prioritise safety and follow instructions from emergency services personnel.
• Maintain calm to preserve oxygen and avoid panic.

Being in close proximity to an evolving wildfire is always going to be scary. However, hopefully the above recommendations will help to minimise risk and maximise safety.

Stay safe everyone.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance. Always prioritise your safety and follow instructions from official emergency services in a wildfire situation.

FIND OUT ABOUT FIREFIGHTERS IN FRANCE