The Preparations Before Wildfires
As the climate continues to warm and dry out, the wildfire season arrives earlier and lasts longer each year. In the USA and Canada, millions of people have been affected, some of them were forced to evacuate in wildfire season. Wildfires will wreak havoc on people's lives and even lead to premature death in vulnerable populations.
Wildfires are notoriously unpredictable. Though we can’t control the occurrence of wildfires, we can make some right preparations to protect ourselves and our families against the hazardous smoke. In this article, we will share some useful tips before wildfire season.
Protect your home and other property
If you are living in an area that faces the very real danger of wildfire, then preparing your home in advance can help protect your home and property before an emergency occurs.
1. The first step in preparing for wildfires is to make your home and surrounding property as fire-resistant as possible. This involves using clearing flammable vegetation and installing fire-proof roofing and siding.
2. Invest in a water pump and other firefighting equipment.
3. Buy insurance for your house and other fixed assets in advance.
Decide whether to evacuate
When a wildfire threatens, the first decision you need make is whether to stay and shelter-in-place or evacuate to a safer location. When making this decision, you should take many factors into consideration, such as the severity of the threat, your home's ability to withstand the flames, and the physical conditions of your family members. We usually suggest the following people should evacuate early:
1. People with lung disease such as asthma and COPD
2. People with heart disease
3. Older adults (generally 65+)
4. Ppregnant people
Pay Attention to the Daily Changes of the Air Quality
If you are living in a wildfires-affected area, your air quality can change quickly during the wildfire season. Knowing where to find information on air quality would be important. You can get the data from local radio, television or social media. Or you can download the AirNow App that quickly access the Fire and Smoke Map to get air quality information.
Stock Up on Supplies
In addition to your go-bag, make sure you have enough non-perishable food, water, and necessary medications to last your family for at least a week.N95 or P100 respirator masks are also essential items.
Pack Your Essentials and Plan Evacuation Routes
Whether you decide to leave or stay, pack your essentials in a "go-bag" (ready with important documents, medications, cash, changes of clothes, and other critical supplies.)At the same time, identify multiple evacuation routes in advance and ensure every family member understands and can implement this plan swiftly.
Prepare Your Home's Air Quality Defenses
If you don't need to evacuate, then safeguarding your indoor air would be necessary. You can invest in an indoor air quality monitor to test the air you are breathing. And an air cleaner is also essential during the wildfire season.
Don't underestimate the importance of preparing for wildfire season. Taking the right precautions can go a long way in shielding your family's health and property.Stay vigilant, stay informed, and stay safe. Wildfire season is upon us, but you don't have to face it unprepared.
