Wildfire Safety: Prepare Ahead Of The Season | WeatherBug
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Wildfire Safety: Prepare Ahead Of The Season

September 27, 2021
By WeatherBug Sr. Meteorologist, James Aman
As the height of wildfire season approaches, don’t be left without a plan of action should a fire threaten your community. So, what should you do now to prepare for the possibility that a raging wildfire heads in your direction? 

What To Do Before a Wildfire Strikes

This advice will make sure you are not scrambling at the last minute to make decisions that could dangerous and deadly.
  • Make a Wildfire Action Plan for your household well ahead of time.
  • Have your Emergency Supply Kit/Evacuation Bag ready to go.
  • Keep your car's tank at least half full.
  • Know how to manually open your garage door (in case of power outage).  
  • Learn at least two different routes to leave your area.
  • Have a plan for your pets (car carrier, etc).
  • Make sure you know your community’s emergency response plan.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts on your cellphone.

What To Do If a Wildfire Threatens Your Area
  • Shut all windows and doors but leave them unlocked so the house is easy to access when you return should the power be out or debris block entrance ways into your house.
  • Remove flammable window shades, curtains and close metal shutters.
  • Evacuate as soon as recommended; don't wait until mandatory evacuation because it may too be late and roads may be too crowded to get out of harm’s way ahead of time.

After the Wildfire Ceases or is Extinguished, What Precautions Should Be Taken?
  • Don't return home until authorities say that it is safe to do so.
  • Watch for hidden embers.
  • Burned tree-trunks can fall without warning - be careful.
  • Burned areas are often at higher risk for flash floods and mudflows for months following a fire.
Nailing down your plan of action ahead of the next wildfire to threaten your area will help ensure you and your family’s safety. 
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Story Image: In this photo provided by Mike McMillan, firefighters battle the Windy Fire near Johnsondale, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021.( Mike McMillan, AP)