As Western homeowners, wildfire season is always an ever-present threat that we have to be prepared for. Wildfires can quickly spread, and the loss of homes and businesses can devastate communities. To make sure you and your family are safe and prepared, here are some tips for wildfire safety.
Preparing ahead of time is key to keeping your family safe from a potential wildfire. Clear away dry grass and brush that could easily catch fire and make sure all fire extinguishers in the household are in working order. It’s important to have easy access to fire safety tools such as a water hose, fire extinguisher and garden rake in case of an emergency evacuation.
Before there is a fire, make sure you know your town’s emergency evacuation routes and plan a meeting spot for your family in case of an emergency. Make sure to have any important documents backed up in a safe location or in a waterproof container that can be easily carried if you must evacuate.
Creating Firebreaks
Creating firebreaks around your home can help minimize damage of an oncoming wildfire. Firebreaks are areas of cleared land around the structure that can give firefighters easier access to the home and aid in containing the flames. Firebreaks can also help minimize the risk of embers being carried from the fire and sparking new fires on your property. Create firebreaks in strategic places around your home, but be mindful of state and local laws when doing so.
Firebreaks can be either permanent or temporary. Permanent firebreaks are made of materials such as gravel, stones, or even cement. Temporary firebreaks can be made using items such as grass clippings and shovels. If constructing a temporary firebreak, be sure to rake and remove any materials that can ignite easily and clear away low branches or brush.
Know Your Local Resources
Learning your local resources can help you stay ahead of major emergencies. Knowing who to contact in case of an evacuation or fire warning is important. Familiarize yourself with local fire safety rules and regulations. Additionally, the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) is the nation’s support center for wildland firefighting and has information on fire prevention, weather forecasts, and other local resources.
Stay up to date by watching the news for any warnings. Consider signing up for local emergency alert systems such as Nixle or Wireless Emergency Alerts and follow local fire departments and civic groups on social media. Additionally, make sure to have batteries and portable, hand-crank radios on hand to stay informed if the power goes out.
Wildfires can be devastating and preparing ahead of time can help keep your home and family safe. Familiarize yourself with local resources, create firebreaks, and have necessary preparedness supplies on hand while also making sure to keep current with news and fire warnings.
Emergency Preparedness Supplies
- Portable hand-crank radios and spare batteries
- Fire extinguisher
- Garden rake
- First Aid kit
- Non-perishable food and water
- Blankets and warm clothes
- Matches
- Backpack
- Fresh-filled water jug
Conclusion
Fire preparedness is key for Western homeowners, and following these tips can help save lives and property. By being prepared and taking precautions, homeowners can be ready for any emergency that comes up during wildfire season.