Tips on Preparing For Wildfires This Year

Expectant mothers have traditionally packed up important items in an overnight bag well before the delivery date. The bag is ready to go at a moment's notice. Preparing for a fire is done much the same way because if you must evacuate suddenly, which often occurs during wildfires, everything will be ready to make this difficult situation less frantic. In fact, it's also a good idea in case of a house fire as well. There are two groups of items which should be considered. First there are the basic necessities such as a change of clothes, medicines, cosmetics, a coat, list of important phone numbers and other essential everyday items. For those living in remote or rural areas, additional items are even more essential because goods and services will not be close by.

• Leather hiking boots with heavy soles. Synthetic materials may melt in hot ash.
• Flashlight with fresh batteries. Replace batteries annually or include second set.
• Canteen. Keep it full of water if you live far from any rivers, lakes or other water sources. Use a large one to be sure there is sufficient water to wet your clothing as well as for drinking.
• Large cotton bandanna. It can be soaked in water and tied around your nose and mouth to filter smoke. Synthetic fibers are less absorbent and may melt.
• Heavy long sleeved shirt. Thick weaving, wool or cotton which may be soaked to better insulate against heat and resist embers.
• High energy snack foods. These are found in all survival packages and will keep indefinitely in original containers. Chocolate, granola bars, trail mix etc.
• Light weight, compact first aid kit. Add extra salve for burns. Include a supply of important prescription medications.
• Rescue location aids. A metal whistle and neck lanyard for ground searchers. 6' by 6' square of florescent orange nylon helps to locate you from the air.
• Construction hard hat. Protects your hair from hot embers which fill the skies in all wildfires. Protects against head injuries in forests where there is the risk of falling branches or even entire trees.
• A sturdy backpack. If you must travel for a long distance, having all these items in a comfortable backpack is a lifesaver, particularly when both hands must be free to climb steep terrain.

If there is a fire in your area, utility lines and telephone poles are often burned. Although your house may not be threatened, if the lines supporting your services are cut, you may be without power for some time. Survival during and after a fire may also mean you must be able to function without water or electrical supplies. This is also helpful in case of earthquake, tornado or other natural disasters. Forest fire agencies suggest each house be equipped with the following:

• 3 - day supply of food sufficient for the entire family. Foods that do not require refrigeration nor cooking and will store indefinitely.
• 3 - day supply of drinking water can be stored in sealed gallon milk jugs, water cooler or plastic liter bottles.
• Assortment of survival aids such as a portable radio, flashlight, extra batteries, emergency cooking equipment, fuel, and portable lantern.
• First aid kit and medical supplies.

Fires never occur when expected and often families are fragmented with adults in one place and one or more of the children somewhere else. It is important that everyone understands there is a second location where all are to meet up eventually. This may be the home of a relative or close friend within a few miles from home.

The sudden order to evacuate leaves many homeowners in a quandary as to which of their cherished possessions to load into the car. Consider keeping some of them permanently in a safe deposit box or fireproof safe to reduce the number of things to take away during evacuation. The confusion around fires can be terrifying, and a list prepared ahead of time for quick consultation assists in gathering up these essential items with the least amount of stress.

Legal documents These include birth certificates, deeds, stock certificates and other essential paperwork. Discuss with your accountant and/or attorney about which ones are most important. This also applies to your fire insurance papers too because you will need them if your home or property is damaged.

Photos. These cannot be replaced at any cost and are often the most sadly mourned when lost in a house fire.

Mementos. Heirlooms, art work and other keepsakes.

Jewelry and other valuables. Gold, precious stones, coins, fine art, family silver, antiques etc.

Family pets.

Computer Files. If you have an office at home or store vital records and data in your computer, be sure to keep all your files backed up on CDs or other media. There may not be room to take the computer with you, but a pocketful of discs ensures you preserve your data.