Washington County has a very high risk of wildfire-higher than 98% of counties in the US.
Wildfire Activity
Washington County Evacuation Zones Interactive Map![]()
What can I do before there is threat of Wildfire?
Receiving timely information about weather conditions or other emergency events can make all the difference in knowing when to take action to be safe.
- Monitor the weather reports provided by your local news radio and TV stations.
- Sign up for local emergency notifications for your community to receive either text message or email alerts.
- Always have extra batteries for a battery-operated radio and your cell phone.
The first Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) is 0-5 feet around your home or to the property line. This zone includes the structure itself, any deck/patio/balcony or other outside entertaining space that butts up to the structure of your home.
- Remove weeds, brush, and other invasive vegetation & debris. Use non-combustible rock mulch instead of standard mulch.
- Trim grass and flowers to 4 inches or less in height. Trim back touching or overhanging tree branches to at least 10 feet from your home.
- Move combustible material away from your home. Firewood and other combustibles should be stored farther from your home.
What should I do under threat of Wildfire?
- Look out for power poles that may be unstable due to the fire. Stay away from downed power lines and report them to 911 or the power company’s emergency number.
- Watch for hazards on the ground. Ash pits, charred trees, smoldering debris, and live embers, and mark them for safety.
- Check the roof and gutters. If possible, wet them down to completely put out any smoldering sparks or embers.
- Use caution when entering burned areas. Hazards may still exist, including hot spots that can ignite or trees that can fall without warning.
- Be careful: avoid walking on smoldering surfaces. The ground may contain heat pockets that can cause severe injury or spark another fire.
- Check the attic. If you see smoke or fire, get out of the house and call 911.
- Wear protective gear. Leather gloves and thick-soled shoes.



