Did you know that in 2020 there were over 58,000 wildfires in the United States? That’s over 8,000 more than the number of wildfires in 2019.Modern technology has made it easier to predict when the conditions are prime for wildfires. However, the system isn’t flawless, and you should always take precautions if you live in a wildfire danger zone. But what’s the best way to protect yourself against wildfires and keep your loved ones safe? We’re here to help you out. Keep reading below to learn how to prepare for wildfire safety tips each family should know.
Table of Contents
Buy Proper Equipment
It’s essential to purchase the proper equipment to prepare yourself for a wildfire. You should also keep it in a handy place, so you won’t have to hunt for it if you’re suddenly struck with an emergency.
One of the most important things to have on hand is a respirator mask. You’ll also want to choose a room or apartment to seal off and stay in during a wildfire to prevent smoke from entering. Make sure to also install an air humidifier in this isolated room.
If you’re out with a crew fighting the fires or working to evacuate the public, radios are a necessity. They’re key to communicating quickly with your fellow crewmembers.
Keep Your Possessions Secure
If you have any important valuables that you want to protect, it’s wise to keep them in a safe location. If possible, move any original documents or family valuables to a storage unit.
Documents can also be uploaded onto a cloud server to ensure their protection. This will both keep them secure and prevent family members from running back into a dangerous building to retrieve them.
Create an Emergency Plan
Even with the right equipment and safeguards in place, your attempt to prepare for a wildfire will be fruitless without a solid emergency plan. Emergency plans should allow for flexibility, as you’ll never know when you might have to put it into action.
When crafting an emergency plan, you should first select a meeting spot. It should be an easily accessible point, and it should house all the necessities you’ll need to survive during a wildfire. Be sure to practice your emergency plan with your family to ensure everyone knows where to go in case of a wildfire.
You’ll also want to pack a grab bag to keep with you at home and/or in your car. Be sure to include a first aid kit, a mask, and copies of any important documents. Your emergency plan should account for any supplies you’ll need in these grab bags.
Be Prepared for Any Wildfire
Wildfires can cause irreparable damage, but much of the damage can often be prevented if you take the right precautions. With the guide above, you’ll be one step closer to protecting yourself and your loved ones from a wildfire.
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