The Best Way to Prepare for a Wildfire

Wildfires not only have the ability to destroy homes but to also cause serious injury as well as death to anyone in its path. A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area, such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. Wildfires can be caused by humans or lightning, can even create flooding and disrupt transportation, gas, power, and communications.

Wildfires can happen anywhere, but there is a higher risk during periods of little rain and high winds. Did you know that wildfires cost the federal government billions of dollars each year? If you’re put under a wildfire warning, it’s important that you get to safety right away. If you are told to leave your home, then you must do everything in your power to pack up quickly and leave. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you’re at risk of injury or death. If you find yourself trapped in your home, call emergency services to help you understand your evacuation options. Do not try to get out on your own without help.

It’s important to listen for emergency information and alerts to keep yourself updated on the fire to understand where you are in its path and what escape routes are available to you. Wildfires have an ability to spread quickly when the wind picks up, so it’s important to listen to your radio and/or news outlet if you feel you’re at risk. In the case you’re caught in a wildfire’s path, have your emergency kit packed and ready to go on short notice. You may be asked to evacuate from your home, and, if you are, it is important for you to do so for your own safety.

Remember to keep up on the news and listen to officials if they are asking you to evacuate. From all of us at Sustain, stay safe and prepared!