Red Flag Warning! What to do now?

Prepare for evacuation
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This page gives quick tips, and only quick tips, about what to do if you get a Red Flag Warning but did not have an evacuation plan ready. The reference is Fire Weather and Evacuation | City of Berkeley.

The National Weather Service declares a “Red Flag Warning” when low humidity and high winds combine for elevated fire risk. Here are suggestions from Firewise neighbors about what to do right now to prepare for possible evacuation:

1. Stay Alert & Informed

  • Use Genasys Protect: Formerly Zonehaven, Genasys Protect provides real-time evacuation alerts. Enter your address to find your specific evacuation zone. ​
  • Monitor local fires with BFD-recommended app Watch Duty.
  • Check AC Alert (acalert.org) for official emergency warnings.
  • Follow the Berkeley Fire Department (@BerkeleyFire) and Cal Fire (@CAL_FIRE) on social media.
  • Listen to KCBS 740 AM, KQED 88.5 FM, KSOL - 98.9 FM (Spanish) and Radio 1610 AM for live updates.

2. Review & Prepare Your Evacuation Plan

  • Know your evacuation routes—the Berkeley Hills has narrow, winding roads, so plan multiple escape routes.
  • If advised, leave early—don’t wait until roads are jammed.
  • Have a meeting point for family members in case of separation.
  • Keep your car fueled and parked facing outward for a quick exit.

3. Pack & Ready Your “Go Bag”

  • Prepare essentials in case you need to leave immediately:
    • Important documents (IDs, insurance, titles, prescriptions)
    • Medications, glasses, and medical devices
    • Cell phone, chargers, and power banks
    • Clothes, N95 masks, and sturdy shoes
    • Pet supplies (leash, food, carrier)
    • Food, water, flashlight, and batteries

4. Prepare Your Home Against Fire

  • Clear dry leaves and debris from gutters and around the house.
  • Remove flammable patio furniture, door mats, and debris from around your home.
  • Connect garden hoses and leave them out for firefighters.
  • Move flammable furniture away from windows inside the house.
  • Close all windows and doors to prevent embers from entering.
  • If evacuation seems likely, turn off gas and propane.

5. Stay Ready to Leave at a Moment’s Notice

  • If an Evacuation Warning is issued, prepare to leave immediately.
  • If an Evacuation Order is issued, leave NOW—do not wait.
  • Avoid driving through smoke or flames.
  • Keep your phone on and ringer loud to receive emergency alerts.

:fire: Red Flag Warnings mean conditions are dangerous! Stay vigilant and evacuate early if you feel unsafe.