What to Do if a Wildfire Happens While You’re on Holiday

Wildfires have become increasingly common across many popular holiday destinations, particularly during the summer months. Countries around the Mediterranean, including Spain, Greece, Portugal, Italy, and parts of France, can experience significant wildfire activity during periods of extreme heat and drought.

While most holidays pass without incident, it’s important to know what to do if a wildfire occurs near your destination. Acting quickly and following official advice can help keep you and your family safe.

Stay Calm and Follow Official Guidance

If you become aware of a wildfire nearby, avoid relying on rumours or social media speculation. Local authorities and emergency services will provide the most accurate information about the situation.

Check:

• Local government websites
• Emergency alert systems
• Hotel communications
• Local news outlets
• Official tourism information channels

If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately.

Keep Your Phone Charged

Your mobile phone may become your most important source of information during an emergency.

Try to:

• Keep devices fully charged
• Carry a power bank
• Save emergency contact numbers
• Enable emergency alerts if available
• Share your location with family members

If power outages occur, having a charged device can make a significant difference.

Know Your Evacuation Routes

Upon arriving at your accommodation, familiarise yourself with local roads, exits, and emergency routes.

Consider:

• Multiple routes away from the area
• Locations of nearby towns or cities
• Public transport options
• Airport access routes

Road closures can happen quickly during a wildfire, so having alternative plans is helpful.

Prepare an Emergency Bag

If there is a risk of evacuation, keep essential items ready to take at short notice.

Include:

• Passports and travel documents
• Mobile phones and chargers
• Medication
• Bottled water
• Basic toiletries
• A change of clothes
• Travel insurance details
• Cash and bank cards

Having everything together can save valuable time if you need to leave quickly.

Protect Yourself From Smoke

Wildfire smoke can travel many miles from the fire itself and may affect air quality even if flames are not visible.

If smoke levels increase:

• Stay indoors where possible
• Close windows and doors
• Use air conditioning if available
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• Wear a suitable mask if advised by authorities

People with asthma, heart conditions, or respiratory illnesses should be particularly cautious.

Contact Your Travel Provider

If your holiday plans are disrupted, contact:

• Your airline
• Tour operator
• Accommodation provider
• Travel insurance company

Many providers offer support during major incidents, including assistance with rebooking flights or finding alternative accommodation.

Keep receipts for any additional expenses, as these may be useful for insurance claims later.

Do Not Attempt to Sightsee Near the Fire

Wildfires can attract attention from curious tourists, but approaching affected areas is extremely dangerous.

Risks include:

• Sudden changes in fire direction
• Falling debris
• Poor visibility
• Road closures
• Emergency vehicles requiring access

Always respect exclusion zones and follow instructions from local authorities.

If You’re Driving

If a wildfire develops near your route:

• Follow official diversion signs
• Keep vehicle windows closed
• Turn on headlights if visibility is poor
• Monitor local travel updates
• Never drive into smoke if visibility becomes severely restricted

If instructed to leave the area, do so promptly.

Stay in Contact With Family and Friends

During any emergency, keeping others informed can reduce worry and ensure someone knows your whereabouts.

Send regular updates to:

• Family members
• Friends travelling separately
• Your employer if necessary
• Anyone expecting your return

Simple messages confirming your safety can provide reassurance.

Check Your Travel Insurance

Before travelling, review your policy carefully to understand what is covered in the event of a natural disaster.

Coverage may include:

• Trip interruption
• Emergency accommodation
• Additional transport costs
• Medical expenses
• Delayed or cancelled flights

The level of cover varies between policies, so understanding your protection before departure is worthwhile.

Before You Travel

If you’re heading to a destination that is prone to wildfires during summer, take a few precautions before leaving home:

• Monitor weather conditions
• Check local fire-risk warnings
• Save emergency contact numbers
• Register for travel alerts where available
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance

Being informed doesn’t mean you should cancel your holiday, but it can help you prepare for unexpected situations.

Final Thoughts

Wildfires can be frightening, particularly when you’re far from home and unfamiliar with the area. However, the vast majority of tourists remain safe by staying informed, following official advice, and acting quickly when necessary.

Preparation, awareness, and common sense are your best tools. By understanding the risks and knowing how to respond, you can protect yourself and your travelling companions should a wildfire affect your holiday destination.