Last year’s Glendale Fire was a reminder of how vulnerable any community is when Mother Nature lets loose. It can sometimes be difficult to get timely information, especially when we are stressed and unprepared. Many people don’t have Twitter and/or Facebook accounts and so publications through those resources are not reliable for everyone.
Key Steps for Wildfire Preparedness from the Fire Department:
- Create Defensible Space: This involves clearing vegetation and flammable materials within a specified radius (e.g., 30-100 feet) of your home.
- Harden Your Home: Use fire-resistant materials for your roof, siding, windows, and decks.
- Develop a Wildfire Action Plan: This should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and safety procedures.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essential items like water,food, medications, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, a radio, and important documents.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather reports, local news, and emergency alerts for updates.
- Practice Evacuation: Regularly review your evacuation plan and practice with your family.
- Know When to Go: Follow your evacuation plan and leave early when instructed.
- Protect Yourself During Cleanup: Wear protective gear (gloves,long sleeves, etc.) when cleaning up after a fire and avoid breathing in ash.
Specific Actions:
Before a Wildfire:
- Review your family preparedness plan and establish a communication plan.
- Assemble a disaster supply kit.
- Design your home with fire-resistant materials and landscaping.
- Install fire/smoke alarms on each floor.
During a Wildfire:
- Follow your evacuation plan.
- Gather your emergency supplies and leave early.
- Monitor local news and emergency alerts.
- After a Wildfire:
- Stay away from burned areas until authorities deem it safe.
- Follow public health guidelines for cleanup and disposal of ash.
- Continue to monitor weather reports and emergency alerts.
