| Prepare Your Family |
Now that you’ve done everything you can to protect your house, it’s time to prepare your family.
- Create a Family Disaster Plan that includes meeting locations and communication plans and practice it regularly. Include in your plan the evacuation of large animals.
- Have fire extinguishers on hand and train your family how to use them.
- Ensure that your family knows where your gas, electric and water main shut-off controls are and how to use them.
- Plan different evacuation routes and a meeting location outside the fire hazard area.
- Appoint an out-of-area friend or relative as a point of contact so you can communicate with family members who have relocated.
- Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers posted near your phone and in your emergency supply kit.
- Assemble an emergency supply kit as recommended by the American Red Cross.
- Supplies to take with you if you need to evacuate:
- Water—one gallon per person, per day (3¬day supply)
- Food—non¬perishable, easy¬to¬prepare items (3¬day supply)
- Flashlight
- Battery¬powered or hand¬crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications (7¬day supply) and medical items
- Multi¬purpose tool
- Sanitation and personal hygiene items
- Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home, birth certificates, insurance policies)
- Cell phone with chargers
- Family and emergency contact information
- Extra cash
- Emergency blanket
- Map(s) of the area
- Other essential items that could not be replaced if they were destroyed
- Keep an extra emergency supply kit in your car in case you can’t get to your home because of fire.
- Have a portable radio or scanner so you can stay updated on the fire.
When a wildfire warning is issued:
- Listen to the radio for reports and evacuation information and instructions.
When to Leave
Leave early enough to avoid being caught in fire, smoke or road congestion. Don’t wait to be told by authorities to leave. In an intense wildfire, they may not have time to knock on every door. If you are advised to leave, don’t hesitate, GO!
Take your emergency supply kit containing your family and pet’s necessary items. |
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