Wildfire Ready: Let’s be prepared
West Fork Fire. Source: Inciweb
Living in or traveling to Big Sky, it’s important to understand wildfire risks & be prepared.
The recent fire activity near Big Sky serves as a stark reminder that wildfire preparedness isn't just about the fire season; it's about being ready year-round. While evacuation orders aren't currently in place, the time to prepare is now, when you can think clearly and act deliberately.
Stay Connected and Informed
Your first line of defense is information. Sign up for community alerts through Everbridge. Everbridge is Gallatin County’s official community notification system. It’s used by local officials to quickly share urgent updates and emergency information with residents.
Stay in the know by following local agencies on social media, such as Gallatin County, the Custer Gallatin National Forest, or Big Sky Fire Department. Inciweb is used to see the most recent updates on wildfires. We personally love the Watch Duty app (SNO is not affiliated with any of these organizations).
Be Prepared
Make it a Plan: Create an evacuation plan with multiple routes if possible. Ensure every household member knows the evacuation routes. Include arrangements for children, elderly family members, and anyone with disabilities who may need additional assistance. Know that internet and cellular service during an emergency may be limited, so it is good to have analog/non-digital routes planned.
Be Ready: Maintain at least half a tank of gas in all vehicles at all times during fire season. Keep spare keys accessible and devices charged. Consider investing in a charging block.
Build Your Go-Bag: Every home should have a go-bag ready all year. Your go-bag should be easily portable and contain everything you need for at least 72 hours away from home. Keep it near an exit door or in your vehicle so it's ready when every minute counts. See our checklist below.
Protecting Your Home: Defense Against Wildfire’s Main Threats
Understanding how homes typically ignite during wildfires helps you take targeted protective actions.
Ember Protection: Most home ignitions start from wind-blown embers, not direct flame contact. These burning pieces of debris can travel over a mile ahead of the main fire.
Clean gutters and roofs of all debris
Cover all vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh screening
Remove anything combustible from on or under decks
Store firewood at least 30 feet from structures
Surface Fire Prevention: Create a "zero fuel zone" within 5 feet of your home by removing all flammable materials.
Clear all vegetation, woodpiles, and combustible materials
Use rock mulch or gravel instead of bark chips
Ensure propane tanks are properly secured and clear of vegetation
Radiant Heat Reduction: Intense heat from nearby fires can ignite your home even without direct flame contact.
Maintain defensible space by trimming trees and removing dead branches
Keep grass watered and cut to under 4 inches
Space plants and shrubs to prevent fire from jumping between them
Consider replacing highly flammable plants with fire-resistant alternatives
Alpenscapes, a partnership between Big Sky SNO, the Gallatin River Task Force, Grow Wild, and Big Sky Fire, is Big Sky’s go to source for creating appealing, alpine-appropriate landscapes that are fire-safe, water-wise, and ecosystem-friendly.
The Psychology of Preparedness
Being prepared isn't just about having the right supplies—it's about maintaining the right mindset. Preparedness reduces panic and allows you to make clear-headed decisions during stressful situations. When you've already thought through scenarios and practiced your response, you can act swiftly and confidently.
Remember that preparedness is an ongoing process, not a one-time checklist. Review and update your plans seasonally, refresh go-bag supplies regularly, and stay informed about fire conditions in our area.
Go-Back Packing List
Every home should have a go-bag ready all year. Your go-bag should be easily portable and contain everything you need for at least 72 hours away from home. Keep it near an exit door or in your vehicle so it's ready when every minute counts. While you may not have everything on this list, you can start piecing it together over time. Here’s our list of items to consider for your go-bag.
Personal Protection & Safety
N95 respirators or masks for smoke protection
Sturdy boots, long pants, and cotton or wool clothing
Leather gloves, safety goggles, and wide-brimmed hat
Flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries
Shelter, Clothing & Comfort
Sleeping bag or blanket for each person
Tent or tarp for emergency shelter
Change of clothes (sturdy, weather-appropriate layers)
Sturdy rain gear and extra socks
Important Documents (keep copies in waterproof containers)
Driver's licenses and passports
Insurance policies and contact information
Medical information and prescription lists
Bank account information and emergency cash
Maps with evacuation routes marked
Memorabilia and important photos
Health & Personal Care
Prescription medications (ideally a 7-day supply)
First aid kit and personal hygiene items
Spare eyeglasses or contact lenses
Any medical devices or mobility aids
Communication & Navigation
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Cell phone chargers (car and portable battery packs)
Family walkie-talkies
Emergency contact list (written down in case your phone fails)
Food & Water
At least one gallon of water per person per day (3-day minimum)
Non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods, a manual can opener if you have canned goods.
Baby formula, diapers, and supplies if needed
Don’t Forget Your Pets and Livestock
Pet carriers, leashes, and identification tags
Pet food, water, and medications
Recent photos of pets in case they get lost
Vaccination records
Plans for large animals and livestock evacuation
