Wildfires can strike with little warning, and preparation is key to protecting your church property and supporting first responders. This checklist guides ministries through practical, last-minute steps to reduce fire damage—from securing windows and shutting off utilities to staging water sources and clearing combustible materials.
Did you close all windows?
Are all single-paned windows covered with shutters or 1/2 inch-thick plywood?
Did you move overstuffed furniture away from windows?
Did you remove curtains made from lace, nylon, or light material?
Did you close all fire-resistant window coverings, heavy drapes, and Venetian blinds?
Did you fill sinks and the baptismal with water? Firemen can use this water to put out spot fires.
Did you leave a light on in each room to aid firefighters?
Did you shut off gas and propane lines?
Did you cover attic and basement vents with 1/2 inch-thick plywood or several layers of aluminum foil?
Did you put tennis balls into downspouts and fill your church’s gutters with water?
Did you position a ladder against the church’s roof on the side facing away from the approaching fire?
Is all combustible outdoor furniture inside the church or garage?
Did you remove wooden flower boxes from beneath windows?
Did you park church vehicles in a garage or move them to a safer location?
Are all vehicle windows closed if you’re unable to move vehicles to a safer location?
Did you close any garage doors?
