As we head into the 2026 wildfire season, many regions across the United States are already experiencing elevated fire risk due to ongoing drought conditions, above-average temperatures, and increasingly volatile weather patterns.
Wildfire season is no longer limited to a few months out of the year. Across the United States, longer drought cycles, rising temperatures, and increasingly severe wind events have created conditions where communities face wildfire risk almost year-round. Recent fires, from the devastating Palisades Fire in Southern California to large-scale fires across Colorado, Nebraska, Oregon, and the Southwest, have reinforced one reality: preparedness matters more than ever.
In January 2025, the Palisades and Eaton Fires became some of the most destructive wildfires in California history, destroying more than 16,000 homes and businesses and forcing mass evacuations across Los Angeles County. The fires spread rapidly after months of drought conditions, critically dry vegetation, and powerful Santa Ana winds that reached up to 100 mph in some areas.
At the same time, drought and elevated wildfire conditions continue across much of the Western United States. NOAA and the U.S. Drought Monitor have reported expanding drought conditions throughout California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, and portions of the Great Plains, with above-normal fire potential expected across many regions.
The good news? Preparation dramatically improves your ability to respond quickly, evacuate safely, and protect your family when conditions change fast.
Here’s your updated wildfire preparedness checklist for 2026:
Step 1: Build a Wildfire Evacuation Plan
Wildfires move fast. In many recent fires, evacuation warnings turn into mandatory evacuation orders within hours.
Every household should have:
- Multiple evacuation routes planned
- A designated family meeting location
- Emergency contact information printed and accessible
- Plans for pets, children, elderly family members, and anyone with medical needs
- Backup charging options for phones and communication devices
Practice your evacuation plan before wildfire season begins - not during an emergency. More on evacuation planning here.
2. Prepare a 72-Hour Emergency Kit
When evacuation orders happen, there may only be minutes to leave. Having a fully built, ready-to-go kit like our Seventy2 Survival Systems, can make all the difference.
Whether you build your own kit or start with a pre-built system, here’s what it should include:
Essentials
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and batteries
- Multi-tools
- First aid supplies
- Prescription medications
- N95 masks
- Protective goggles (critical for smoke and ember exposure)
- Emergency blankets
- Hygiene supplies
Communication & Power
- Portable battery banks
- Solar chargers
- NOAA weather radio
What to Add (Even If You Have our Seventy2 Survival System)
Pre-built kits like the Seventy2 are designed to cover core survival needs, but you should always personalize your system based on your household and risk profile.
Be sure to add:
- Copies of important documents (IDs, insurance, medical records)
- Extra prescription medications
- A fire blanket
- Cash (small bills)
- Local maps and evacuation routes
- Pet supplies (if applicable)
- Any mission-specific or family-specific items
The key is readiness. Your kit should be:
- Easy to grab
- Clearly organized
- Built to withstand harsh conditions
- Ready to go at a moment’s notice
When wildfire conditions escalate, having a complete, well-prepared system can significantly reduce decision-making time and help you act quickly when it matters most.
3. Harden Your Home Against Wildfire Risk
Creating defensible space remains one of the most effective ways to reduce wildfire damage.
Around Your Home:
- Clear dry brush and dead vegetation
- Trim trees and branches near structures
- Clean gutters and roofs
- Move firewood away from buildings
- Use ember-resistant vents if possible
Prepare for Power Outages:
Many recent fires have also caused widespread outages and infrastructure disruptions.
Keep:
- Backup lighting
- Emergency power
- Fuel stored safely
- Extra water reserves
4. Stay Aware of Fire Weather Conditions
Wildfire conditions can change rapidly due to:
- Drought
- Low humidity
- Heat waves
- High winds
- Dry lightning events
Across much of the U.S., Red Flag Warnings and elevated fire weather advisories are becoming more frequent, particularly in drought-affected regions.
Monitor:
- National Weather Service alerts
- Local evacuation notices
- Air quality reports
- State fire agencies such as CAL FIRE
5. Prepare for Smoke & Air Quality Issues
Wildfires impact more than just evacuation zones.
Smoke from major fires can travel hundreds of miles and create dangerous air quality conditions for days or even weeks.
Keep:
- N95 masks
- Air purifiers if possible
- Sealed indoor areas
- Extra medications for respiratory conditions
Children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or heart conditions are especially vulnerable during wildfire smoke events.
6. Think Beyond the First 24 Hours
One of the biggest lessons from recent disasters is that recovery often takes longer than expected.
Prepare for:
- Extended evacuations
- Delayed emergency services
- Supply shortages
- Communication disruptions
- Temporary sheltering
Instructional emergency kits and clearly organized preparedness systems can help families respond more effectively during high-stress situations when information and resources may be limited.
Wildfire Preparedness Is No Longer Optional
The scale and intensity of recent wildfire seasons make one thing clear: preparation saves time, reduces stress, and can save lives.
As wildfire risks continue expanding across the United States, every household should take steps now to:
- Build an evacuation plan
- Maintain emergency supplies
- Stay informed during high-risk weather
- Prepare for rapid deployment if conditions worsen
When seconds matter, preparation matters even more.
Recommended Wildfire Preparedness Supplies
If you’re building or updating your emergency kit this season, focus on:
- 72-hour survival systems (like the Uncharted Seventy2)
- First aid kits
- Vehicle emergency kits
- Backup power and lighting
- Air quality protection
- Long shelf-life emergency supplies
Preparedness isn’t about fear; it’s about being ready before an emergency happens.
