Wildfire Emergency Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide to Protect Your Family and Home
Wildfires are an unfortunate reality, and being prepared can save lives, protect your property, and provide peace of mind.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a fire emergency.
1. Create an Emergency Plan
An emergency plan ensures everyone in your household knows what to do in case of evacuation.
Escape Routes: Identify at least two ways out of your home and neighborhood.
Meeting Points: Choose a safe location to gather after evacuating.
Communication Plan: Share emergency contacts and establish a way to stay in touch if separated.
Practice Drills: Regularly rehearse your evacuation plan with all household members, including pets.
Evacuation Priorities Based on Time
If You Have 15 Minutes to Evacuate:
Grab these essentials and leave immediately:
Go bag with:
3 Days of Clothes
Prescription Medications (for everyone, including pets)
Cash and Wallet
Phone and Chargers
Flashlights and Batteries
Important ID Documents: Driver’s license, passports, Social Security cards
Eyeglasses/Contacts
If You Have 30 Minutes to Evacuate:
Include the above and additional items:
Valuables: Jewelry, small electronics, heirlooms
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, wet wipes, etc.
First Aid Kit
Bedding: Blankets, sleeping bags, and pillows
Pet Supplies: Food, water, and toys
Water: 1 gallon per person
If You Have 1 Hour or More to Evacuate:
Add these items for a more comprehensive evacuation:
Sentimental Items: Photo albums, keepsakes
Financial Documents: Mortgage papers, insurance policies, deeds, and other important paperwork
Additional Electronics: Laptops, external hard drives, and chargers
Extra Supplies: Non-perishable food and reusable bags for storage
Second Vehicle: If applicable, move both vehicles out of immediate danger
Comfort Items: Games, books, or toys to occupy children during displacement
2. Pack a Comprehensive Go Bag
Prepare a go bag tailored to each member of your household, including pets.
Essentials for Everyone:
Water: One gallon per person per day (3-day minimum).
Food: High-energy snacks, canned goods, and a manual can opener.
Clothing: Socks, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate attire.
First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptics, and specific medical supplies.
N95 Masks and Goggles: Protection from smoke and ash.
Flashlights and Batteries: Solar or hand-crank models preferred.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and travel-size items.
Comfort Items: Pillows, blankets, and sleeping bags.
Storage: Duffle bags or reusable storage bags.
Important Documents:
Identification: Passports, Social Security cards, and driver’s licenses.
Insurance Policies: Home, health, and auto.
Property Records: Deeds, mortgage statements, and home inventory.
Emergency Contacts: Printed and digital copies.
Pet Supplies:
Food and water.
Leashes or carriers.
Medications and vaccination records.
3. Review Your Insurance Policy
Ensure your coverage meets your needs in case of wildfire-related damages.
Replacement Costs: Confirm your policy covers rebuilding costs at today’s rates.
Valuables: Verify personal property coverage.
Temporary Housing: Check for Additional Living Expenses (ALE).
Inventory: Document your belongings with photos/videos stored digitally.
4. Safeguard Your Property
Take proactive steps to protect your home:
Defensible Space: Clear dry vegetation and flammable materials within 30 feet.
Fire-Resistant Materials: Use ember-resistant vents and fireproof siding/roofing.
Garden Hoses: Keep them connected for immediate use.
Emergency Equipment: Store fire extinguishers and test smoke detectors regularly.
5. Stay Informed
Stay updated during emergencies:
Local Alerts: Sign up for systems like Alert Marin.
Emergency Apps: Download FEMA, Red Cross, or local alert systems.
Air Quality Monitoring: Use AirNow.gov to track conditions.
6. Back Up Important Information
Protect critical records and memories:
Digital Backups: Use cloud storage or external hard drives.
Hard Copies: Store originals in a fireproof, waterproof safe.
7. Prepare Your Vehicles
Ensure vehicles are ready for evacuation:
Fuel: Keep the gas tank at least half full.
Emergency Car Kit: Include water, snacks, flashlights, and blankets.
Parking: Park facing outward for easy exit.
8. Know Your Neighborhood Resources
Be aware of local resources and support:
Shelters: Identify locations nearby.
Evacuation Routes: Learn multiple ways out of your neighborhood.
Community Support: Offer or seek assistance for neighbors with mobility challenges.
