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Wildfire & Bushfire Safety
Immediate Actions During & After Wildfires
In dry grasslands or forests (such as Mount Kenya or Mau Forest buffer zones), wildfires can spread rapidly due to dry winds:
- Evacuate Early: Evacuate in the direction opposite to the fire's movement. Do not wait for an official order if you see heavy smoke or approaching flames.
- Protect Air Quality: Cover your nose and mouth with a wet, thick cloth or mask to filter smoke and ash particles. Close doors, windows, and fireplace dampers.
- Clear Defensible Space: Clear dry branches, leaves, and firewood at least 10 meters from structures. Wet your roof and walls with water if you have supply.
- Monitor Smoldering Embers: After the fire passes, check rooftops, wooden fences, and crop borders for hidden ember hotspots that could reignite.
Forest & Bushfire Contacts
- Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Fire Hotline: 020 2385311
- Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) (Parks/Buffers): 0800 597 000 (Toll-free)
- Kenya Red Cross Society (Evacuations/Medical): 1199
- National Disaster Operations Centre: 020 2215105
