Prepare for Possible Wildfires
With the prolonged record-breaking heat and lack of rain in Texas this year, ideal conditions are being created for wildfires even in places that are not normally at risk. Texas has issued a wildfire disaster declaration for about 75% of the counties in the state. The unpredictable nature of wildfires often catches people off-guard and unprepared. Now is a good time to brush up on how to prepare for possible wildfires.
Create a Plan
Even if your area has never had wildfires before, your home may susceptible this year due to the extra hot and dry weather. Identify escape routes from you home. Establish a location outside the hazard area your family can meet. Include pets in your evacuation plan. Talk to your family about the plan and practice emergency procedures.
Stay Informed
Tune in to local weather reports for up-to-date fire and smoke conditions. Purchase a battery-operated radio, in the event of a power outage. Listen for emergency instructions or evacuation procedures.
Remove Flammable Items
It only takes a small ember from a nearby fire to ignite a bed of pine needles, leaves or sticks. Trim hedges, rake leaves and remove fallen branches
Bring all other items indoors, but don’t store them near windows and sliding glass doors. These items include:
- Outdoor furniture
- Doormats
- Potted plants
- Barbecues
- Children’s toys
Water as a Deterrent
Slow a fire’s progression by placing large containers of water outside your home. Fill garbage cans, hot tubs and swimming pools. Make sure your garden hose is connected to a water source. Firefighters have been known to use these to fight fires.
Prevent Smoke Inhalation
Smoke inhalation is dangerous in healthy individuals, but can be life-threatening in those with existing heart and respiratory conditions. Pregnant women, children and the elderly are also vulnerable.
Limit outdoor time and make sure your home is sealed. Smoke particles can easily get into a home through a slightly cracked window or vent. Don’t rely on dust masks to protect your lungs. If you need to use one, an “N95” or “N100” mask can provide some protection when used properly.
Keep indoor air clean. Don’t vacuum, burn candles or use gas stoves. These can stir up dust particles and pollute indoor air.
Know the Signs of Smoke Inhalation
Wildfires, even if miles away, can significantly affect health, especially for people with lung or breathing problems, so it is important to know what the signs are. They include:
- Breathing problems
- Chest pain
- Dry throat
- Fatigue
- Rapid heart rate
- Congestion
Stay Safe During Outages
Wildfires frequently cause power outages. During the summer months, it can be especially difficult to tolerate the heat when the power is out, especially when you can’t open the windows due to smoke.
Stay hydrated by drinking clean water every 20 minutes. Water purification systems often do not function properly during outages, so keep bottled water on hand.
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and wash face with a wet cloth if you’re feeling overheated.
Refrigerated food is safe to eat if the power is out for less than 4 hours. You can keep food items fresh by placing them in a cooler with ice. Use a food thermometer to gauge temperature. Anything over 40 degrees Fahrenheit should be thrown out.
Evacuate Safely
If a wildfire is raging in your area, be prepared to evacuate your home. Keep your car’s tank full and follow the recommended emergency routes, even if there’s significant traffic.
Pack an emergency kit with the following items:
- Medications
- Phone and charger
- Cash
- Flares
- Toolkit
- Jumper cables
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Blankets
If Caught in a Wildfire
If you find yourself caught in a wildfire, don’t try to outrun it. Find an area with little vegetation and lie or crouch low to the ground. Cover your body with something damp, like soil, wet clothing or blanket. Breathe the air lowest to the ground, ideally through a moist cloth to filter out smoke particles.
Install a Security System
Consider installing a security system to protect your home in your absence. You can monitor your home remotely and immediately report damage to authorities and the insurance company.
Don’t wait for a wildfire to strike before you begin preparing. Be vigilant about fire safety when you are in your backyard or camping, and report any unattended fires to authorities.
Let Cultris Security ensure your home is safe and secure! Contact us at 281-506-8466 or visit us online!
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