Last Updated: February 3, 2026
What is a Wildfire Temporary Refuge Building?
Wildfire Temporary Refuge Buildings (WTRBs) are designated, hardened structures intended to provide short-term life safety protection for occupants who are unable to evacuate safely during a rapidly advancing wildfire. These buildings are designed and prepared to withstand extreme radiant heat and ember intrusion for the limited duration of wildfire passage.
WTRBs are not evacuation shelters and are not intended for extended occupancy. Their purpose is to serve as a last-resort refuge when evacuation routes are compromised and immediate evacuation is no longer feasible. Use of a WTRB is authorized only under specific conditions and in accordance with established emergency procedures.
Key features typically include fire-resistant construction, protected ventilation or filtration systems, and minimal surrounding vegetation to reduce fuel load. Occupants are expected to remain inside until the immediate wildfire threat has passed and it is safe to relocate under the direction of first responders or Laboratory Emergency Services.
How Buildings are Evaluated for WTRB Use?
Buildings designated as WTRBs were selected by the Office of the Fire Marshal based on established wildfire protection standards, including the California Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code, NFPA 1140, and DOE Handbook 1224. Selection focused on identifying structures capable of providing short-term refuge during a wildfire while minimizing occupant risk.
The following parameters were analyzed to determine suitability:
- Topographical Features: Assessing elevation, slope, and surrounding terrain that could influence wildfire behavior.
- Vegetation: Evaluating nearby plant fuel loads and potential ignition sources.
- Slope: Considering the angle of surrounding land, which affects fire spread and ember travel.
- Building Setback: Reviewing distance from vegetation and other combustible elements.
- Roofing Materials: Ensuring fire-resistant or non-combustible roofing to reduce ember vulnerability.
- Building Construction: Prioritizing structures with fire-resistant walls, windows, and doors.
- Fences and Attachments: Identifying combustible attachments that may increase wildfire risk.
- Fuel Modification: Considering any landscape modifications that reduce fire exposure, such as cleared buffer zones.
Buildings meeting these criteria were determined to provide a safe, short-term refuge when evacuation is not possible.
WTRB Criteria Scorecard
When to use WTRBs?
WTRBs shall be used only as a last-resort when safe evacuation is no longer possible due to rapidly advancing wildfire conditions. Occupants should enter a WTRB when evacuation routes are blocked or unsafe and there is an immediate threat to life.
WTRBs are intended for short-term refuge during wildfire passage and are not a substitute for early evacuation or a location for extended sheltering. Once conditions permit, occupants shall evacuate under the direction of incident command.
How will I be notified to relocate to a WTRB?
If it is determined that relocation to a WTRB is safer than evacuation, LBNL Emergency Services will issue a lab-wide LabAlert directing occupants to proceed to their nearest WTRB. Depending on wildfire location and conditions, the LabAlert may be targeted to specific protective action zones rather than the entire Laboratory. Upon receiving this message, notify all individuals in your immediate vicinity to ensure no one has missed the notification.
LabAlert Example
Where are the WTRBs?
There are two designated WTRBs in each protective action zone, for a total of twelve across the Laboratory. The map below identifies the locations of all WTRBs.
What should I do when I arrive at a WTRB?
Once you arrive at the WTRB, locate the WTRB Emergency Supply Cabinet. Cabinets are typically placed in high-traffic common areas, and their locations are identified on Building Evacuation Maps posted near exits. Larger WTRBs may have multiple cabinets.
Use the QR code located on the top of the cabinet or on the back of the binder to check in for accountability. These check-ins are monitored in the LBNL Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Then open the binder and follow the instructions.
WTRB Emergency Supply Cabinet
How do I prepare for a wildfire incident at LBNL?
1. Stay Alert
- Ensure your LabAlert profile is up to date.
- Know your zone and primary evacuation routes.
2. Plan Your Escape
- Identify multiple evacuation routes from your work area.
- Know the nearest WTRB if evacuation becomes unsafe.
3. Prepare Your Workspace
- Ensure all egress routes are clear of obstacles and tripping hazards.
- Keep personal emergency supplies ready.
4. WTRB Procedures
- Check in using the QR code at the WTRB cabinet.
- Open the WTRB Emergency Equipment Binder and follow instructions.
5. During a Wildfire
- Follow LabAlert instructions immediately.
- Notify coworkers in your area to ensure everyone is aware.
6. After the Threat
- Wait for First Responder or Lab Emergency Management instructions before leaving.
- Report hazards or injuries to 911 and the Site Operations Center x6999.
Please email emergencymanagement@lbl.gov with any questions or concerns.
