1. Make sure your home is surrounded by what’s called “defensible space.”
Defensible space is needed as a buffer between a building on your property and the grass, trees, shrubs or any wild land around it. Experts recommend removing dead vegetation, trimming trees, relocating wood piles and generally removing anything that could catch fire within at least 30 feet of your home.
Read up more on creating defensible space here.
2. Protect the outside of your home against fire and flying embers.
Using ember-resistant building materials on your home can protect against flying embers that can travel up to a mile away from a wildfire. Build or re-roof your roof with materials like metal or tile rather than wood or shingles, CAL FIRE recommends. Covering vents with metal mesh to block flying embers is also recommended.
These are just a few of the many tips provided. Read up more on hardening your home here.
3. Prepare an emergency kit now.
Individuals and families should have an emergency supply kit that will support them for an extended amount of time. Some of the many suggested items include a three-day supply of food, three gallons of water, medication, a change of clothes, a first aid kit, a flashlight and copies of important documents.
For more ideas on your emergency supply kit, go here.
4. Create a wildfire action plan.
When you have an action plan ready in advance, you’ll be able to react more quickly during a wildfire. It should include an evacuation plan, knowledge of gas, electric and water shut-off controls and how to safety shut them down and a emergency contact list.
Read more about creating an action plan here.
5. Know how to get out quickly and safely if needed.
In addition to executing an an evacuation plan and taking an emergency supply kit, evacuating individuals should plan to cover up with long pants, long sleeves, boots, a hat and dry bandanna, goggles or glasses to cover their face. And don’t forget your pets!
If and when a wildfire strikes in your area, go early, CAL FIRE recommends, for the safety of you and your family and so fire fighters can do their jobs.
Fore more tips and advice on how to prepare for a wildfire, check out readyforwildfire.org. For tips from San Diego County, go to readysandiego.org/wildfire.
