Oklahoma Wildfire Emergency: 10 Must-Do Steps for Safety & Evacuation
Multiple fast-moving wildfires have broken out across Oklahoma, forcing evacuations and causing power and water outages. Fires have been reported in Norman, Stillwater, Velma, Edmond, and Shawnee. Authorities urge residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders immediately.
Live Updates on Oklahoma Wildfire
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a large wildfire near Norge is moving towards Chickasha, putting the area at immediate risk.
🚨 Evacuation Notice Issued:
- Residents south and east of Lake Thunderbird and Norman (rural Cleveland County) must evacuate.
- Areas between 108th St. to 132nd St., from Post Oak Road to State Highway 9 are under evacuation.
- CrossPointe Church in Norman is offering shelter to evacuees.
ALERT (5PM): Evacuations are occurring in the area of 120th Ave SE & Etowah (3 miles north; 3 miles east; 3 miles west) due a large fire in the area. Residents are asked to evacuate immediately. MORE INFO: https://t.co/0JoD1TXJJF pic.twitter.com/XBLSNYU70a
— Norman Police (@normanokpd) March 14, 2025
🔥 Stillwater Fire Update:
- A wildfire is moving northeast from Lake Carl Blackwell.
- Evacuations ordered for residents between 19th and Sixth Streets and Range to Cottonwood.
- Primrose Retirement Community has been evacuated.
10 Urgent Steps to Stay Safe & Evacuate
1. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
Stay informed through official sources:
✅ Code Red Alerts (www.ready.gov/alerts)
✅ FEMA Alerts (bit.ly/3AFmrRD)
✅ National Weather Service (NWS) (www.weather.gov/alerts)
2. Know Your Evacuation Routes
Identify at least two exit routes from your neighborhood. Drive them in advance to familiarize yourself. Set a meeting point outside town for family reunification.
3. Prepare for Pets & Livestock
- Keep pet carriers, leashes, and food ready.
- Label carriers with your name, phone number, and vet's contact.
- Find pet-friendly shelters in advance.
4. Protect Important Documents
- Store passports, property papers, birth certificates in a fireproof safe.
- Create digital backups in a secure location.
5. Be Ready for Nighttime Evacuations
- Keep a flashlight, sturdy shoes, and phone near your bed.
- Have a go-bag with essentials packed and accessible.
6. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
List family, friends, doctors, insurance, and veterinarians' contact details in your phone and in a printed copy.
7. Practice an Evacuation Drill
- Time how long it takes to load your car and leave.
- Practice with family, pets, and essential supplies.
8. Prepare an Emergency "Go Bag"
Your kit should include:
✅ Medicines & prescriptions
✅ N95 masks, bottled water & non-perishable food
✅ Phone chargers, extra clothes, and first-aid supplies
✅ Cash, credit cards, and important documents
9. Remove Fire Hazards Around Your Home
- Keep gutters, yards, and decks free of dry leaves.
- Move flammable items like firewood or propane tanks away from the house.
10. Stay Updated & Follow Officials’ Orders
- Monitor official news channels and government websites.
- Never assume a fire won’t reach your area—evacuate when ordered.
Fires are unpredictable. The best way to survive is to stay prepared, follow evacuation orders, and keep updated with real-time alerts. Make sure your family knows the plan, and don’t delay evacuating when necessary. Stay safe!