Safety

When encountering wildfire smoke, there’s no need to panic immediately, as smoke and ash can travel from fires far away. Understanding the colour and behaviour of smoke can help you assess your situation and take the right steps to stay safe. A large smoke column usually signals a major fire, while the direction of the column indicates where the fire is moving. It’s important to move in the opposite direction, away from the flames.

Smoke levels can change rapidly throughout the day. Valleys may appear smokier in the morning because smoke settles into low-lying areas overnight. An atmosphere tinged with yellowish-orange to red hues is a warning sign. It’s time to leave, as the air quality is quickly becoming hazardous. White smoke often comes from fast-burning fuels like grass, while dark smoke typically means a longer-lasting fire involving thick brush or timber. Dark smoke also signals a risk of embers jumping firebreaks or roads, potentially igniting new fires ahead.

When escaping smoke or fire, it’s best to rest when the smoke is thickest and move when it clears. However, if you are suddenly ‘smoked out’ or see dry lightning, you should move immediately. If caught in a fire, seek shelter, cover your head and body, and stay close to the ground, breathing through a wet cloth if possible.

Remember that fires move uphill faster than downhill. Wide, flat areas with little vegetation are safer because there is less fuel to feed the fire. Paved, gravel, or dirt roads, as well as already-burned areas, also offer safer routes—though be cautious of hot ash pockets and ground heat, which can damage vehicles. Crossing waterways can be unpredictable, but wet areas and small streams without electrical hazards may provide safe escape routes. If evacuating by water, ensure evacuation boats or craft are available so you’re not trapped between fire and water.