FAQ: What to know about wildfire emergency preparedness in Cook County

Josh Hinke | July 22, 2026

A lot of information has been shared over the past week. To help answer the questions we hear most often, WTIP has compiled this wildfire FAQ.

Have a question we didn’t answer? Email the WTIP News team at news@wtip.org.

This information on this page was last updated on July 22. Emergency information can change rapidly. Always follow instructions from the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Forest Service and other emergency officials.

Closures

Is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness closed?

Yes. The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness remains closed through July 24. The U.S. Forest Service has said it is exploring reopening portions of the wilderness when conditions allow.

Are businesses in Cook County and the Gunflint Trail closed?

Most businesses remain open. WTIP has not been notified of widespread business closures related to the wildfires or air quality. Because conditions can change quickly, contact businesses directly before traveling.

Some lakes along the Gunflint Trail are outside the BWCAW closure area and remain open for recreation. Local outfitters can help visitors identify accessible areas.

Ready, Set, Go

What is Ready, Set, Go?

“Ready, Set, Go” is the evacuation system used to communicate the level of preparedness residents should have during an emergency.

The Cook County Sheriff is the only authority to order an emergency evacuation in the county. Cook County uses the “Ready, Set, Go” method, here are the basics.

READY for potential evacuation. Create an evacuation plan and be sure that all household members are familiar with the plan. Gather all emergency supplies and create an emergency supply kit. Be up to date with your insurance and take a video home inventory. Closely monitor the situation.
SET to evacuate. Prepare to leave at a moment’s notice! Start packing your vehicle and back your car into the driveway to ensure quick and seamless evacuation. If you feel threatened don’t wait for a final evacuation notice, just go!
GO! Evacuate immediately! Make sure all household members are accounted for. Have several predetermined evacuation routes planned and choose the safest one. Head to your designated safe location (relative’s house, motel, etc.). GO!

Residents can find their evacuation zone and recommended actions through Cook County website here: https://cookcountymn.gov/government/departments/emergency_management/emergency_evacuation_reminders.php

Also, the Know Your Zone map.

When should I evacuate and what should I do?

Residents do not have to wait for a “Go” order if they feel unsafe. Anyone choosing to leave early can check in at the Cook County YMCA, which would serve as an evacuation shelter if a “Go” order is issued.

If a “Go” order is issued, emergency responders will check every residence in the affected area to ensure the evacuation order has been communicated.

How often are evacuation orders changed?

Evacuation orders can change at any time based on fire conditions.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED emergency alerts to receive notifications by phone, text message and email.

If your area is under a “Set” order, be prepared to leave immediately if conditions worsen.

Air Quality

Where can I check the current air quality and get air quality forecasts?

Current air quality conditions and forecasts are available through AirNow.gov

What should I do if the air quality becomes hazardous?

Officials recommend individuals limit time outdoors whenever possible. If you must be outside, wear a well-fitting N95 or similar respirator.

At home, create a clean-air room and run an air purifier if available. If you do not have an air purifier, a box fan fitted with a high-efficiency furnace filter can improve indoor air quality.

During previous events, Cook County opened the YMCA as a clean-air shelter. Watch for announcements if smoke conditions worsen.

Firewise & Preparing Your Home

What steps can I take to prepare my property in the event of a wildfire?

Firewise is a National program, and adopted by Minnesota and Cook County. Firewise encourages fuel reduction for wildfire safety by homeowners to protect property from wildfire risk.

Learn more about the Cook County Firewise program here: https://cookcountyfirewise.org/

Listen to a WTIP interview below with Ruth Wagner, with the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department & owner of Golden Eagle Lodge about how property owners can use their sprinkler systems in the event of a wildfire: