May 2 is Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. This annual event is a national campaign organized by the National Fire Protection Association meant to encourage us all to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks.
Fires can happen at any time, and their consequences can be devastating. But each of us can do our part to mitigate the danger and help protect our community. NFPA offers these tips for making the most of Wildfire Community Preparedness Day.
Check:
- Make sure your address number is clearly visible from the street and unobstructed by vegetation in case firefighters need to find you. Locate 2 possible routes to get out of your neighborhood.
- Move woodpiles so they are at least 30 feet from your home.
- Take an audit of your possessions for insurance purposes. Visit iii.org for tips from the Insurance Information Institute on conducting an inventory of your belongings.
Clear
- Clear dry leaves or brush at least 3 to 5 feet away from your home’s foundation. Over time, expand that radius to 30 feet, if possible. Also clear debris from porches and decks and dispose of it in appropriate trash receptacles.
- Remove items stored under decks and porches. Gasoline cans and portable propane tanks should never be stored in or near your house.
Communicate
- Create a family communication plan and assemble a 72-hour evacuation kit for your household and pets.
- Register your mobile number with the local Office of Emergency Management to receive text alerts. Work with neighbors to create a phone tree to alert everyone about a fire or evacuation.
Visit the NFPA website for more tips and resources.