Marin County has made wildfire evacuation readiness a top priority. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of local fire and police departments, public works, emergency managers, and community groups like Fire Safe Marin and Firewise neighborhoods, our county is better prepared than ever before. But success depends on each of us doing our part.
Stay Informed: Sign Up for AlertMarin
AlertMarin is the County’s official emergency notification system. All residents should register at alertmarin.org to receive evacuation alerts via call, text, or email. Signing up takes only a few minutes and ensures you’ll be notified quickly in an emergency.
Technology-Driven Evacuation Planning
Marin now uses advanced tools to improve fire detection and evacuation response. AI-powered cameras placed on mountaintops detect smoke and trigger real-time alerts to emergency coordination centers. Evacuation maps are updated live at emergency.marincounty.gov.
First responders also use “Hi-Lo” sirens and long-range acoustic devices (LRADs) to notify neighborhoods when it’s time to evacuate. These tools are part of a broader effort to ensure fast, clear communication.
Understanding Our Risks
A major milestone in preparedness was the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority’s (MWPA) Evacuation Ingress/Egress Risk Assessment, which identified vulnerable “one way in, one way out” neighborhoods and roadways with poor communication access. This data now helps guide roadside vegetation management, parking strategies, and community-specific evacuation plans.
In 2024, Marin added Ladris AI simulation software, which models real-time evacuation scenarios based on local traffic conditions. This allows planners to test and improve strategies before a real emergency occurs.
Heat and Shelter Readiness
Another recent study looked at how heat affects evacuation. It identified roads where excessive heat could be dangerous and modeled how heat accumulates inside vehicles, helping shape shelter plans and safety training.
Prepare Your Household
Emergency readiness starts at home:
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Create an evacuation plan and practice it with your family.
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Pack a “go bag” with essentials for at least 72 hours.
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Plan for pets and neighbors who may need assistance.
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Harden your home by sealing vents, clearing gutters, and removing combustible materials.
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Create defensible space, especially in “Zone 0” — the first 0–5 feet from your home — to protect against flying embers.
Marin Leads Nationally
Marin’s evacuation management framework, co-developed by local police and fire chiefs, has earned national attention. The county has even been invited by the U.S. Fire Administration to help develop national evacuation guidelines and participate in national simulation exercises.
Take Action Today
Preparedness is not a one-time project — it’s an ongoing community effort. By staying informed and taking simple steps now, you can help protect your family and your neighborhood when disaster strikes.
Sign up for alerts at alertmarin.org
Get tips on home hardening and defensible space at firesafemarin.org