Wildfire season can pose serious risks to your property, including your vehicle. Heat, ash, and smoke can damage your car’s exterior, interior, and performance. Taking proactive measures can help minimize the risks and prepare your vehicle for emergencies. Here’s a detailed guide to preparing your car for wildfire season.
Contents
1. Create an Emergency Kit for Your Car
Having a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial during wildfire season. Your kit should include:
- Face masks: To protect against smoke inhalation.
- First-aid supplies: For any injuries during an emergency.
- Water and snacks: Keep enough supplies for all passengers.
- Flashlight and extra batteries: Essential for visibility if driving at night.
- Portable phone charger: To ensure you can call for help when needed.
Store the kit in an easily accessible area, like your trunk or under the seat.
2. Check Your Vehicle’s Air Filters
During wildfires, ash and debris can quickly clog your car’s air filters. A dirty filter reduces airflow, affecting engine performance and air quality inside your car.
- Inspect your engine air filter regularly and replace it if dirty.
- Use a high-efficiency cabin air filter to prevent smoke and ash from entering the vehicle’s interior.
3. Protect Your Car’s Exterior
The intense heat and falling ash during a wildfire can damage your car’s paint and windows. To protect your car:
- Apply a ceramic coating or high-quality wax to shield the paint from heat and debris.
- Use a car cover designed for high-heat protection when parked outdoors.
- Wash your car frequently to remove ash and prevent it from scratching the surface.
4. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Wildfire evacuations often require long drives, sometimes through rough terrain. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires are more prone to blowouts, which can be dangerous in emergencies.
- Check your tire pressure weekly during wildfire season.
- Keep a portable tire inflator in your emergency kit.
5. Keep Your Gas Tank Full
During wildfires, fuel stations may close or experience shortages. A full gas tank ensures you can evacuate quickly without worrying about running out of fuel. Make it a habit to refill your tank once it’s half empty.
6. Park Smartly
Where you park your car can significantly impact its safety during a wildfire:
- Avoid parking under trees or near dry vegetation that could catch fire.
- Park in a garage if possible, but ensure it’s free of flammable materials.
- If parking outdoors, choose a flat, open area away from potential fire hazards.
7. Stay Informed and Plan Ahead
During wildfire season, it’s essential to stay updated on local conditions:
- Monitor weather alerts and wildfire updates.
- Plan multiple evacuation routes and save them on your GPS.
- Keep a physical map in case mobile networks fail.
Quick Checklist for Wildfire Season Car Prep
| Task | Why It’s Important | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Stock an emergency kit | Ensures readiness for evacuation or emergencies. | Add masks, water, flashlight. |
| Replace air filters | Prevents engine and cabin contamination. | Check and replace as needed. |
| Apply exterior protection | Shields paint and windows from heat and ash. | Use wax or ceramic coating. |
| Maintain tire pressure | Avoids blowouts during long evacuations. | Check weekly and inflate properly. |
| Keep gas tank full | Ensures quick and uninterrupted evacuation. | Refill when half empty. |
| Park smartly | Reduces risk of heat and fire damage. | Choose safe, open areas. |
Preparing your car for wildfire season is about more than just protecting your vehicle—it’s about ensuring your safety and readiness during emergencies.
