A California Law Firm has compiled a guide for Wildfire awareness and readiness.
The Western United States has witnessed the devastating effects climate change can have when combined with strong winds. Professor Anthony Westerling (UC-Merced) has studied the relationship between climate and wildfires. He states the following: “I would say there is no question whatsoever that climate plays a role in the increase in fires. I think it is shown without any room for reasonable doubt that climate is warming and becoming more variable because of human activity. Because precipitation is more variable in Western US and temperatures are increasing, you know that wildfires will be amped up because of climate change.
Westerling points to another condition that contributes to risk: the increased development of wildlife areas. As communities expand into more rural areas, wildfires simply have shorter distances to travel before arriving at doorsteps, making it more urgent to address this growing danger.
Lastly, the mismanagement of the wildfires themselves leads to a greater likelihood of damages and harm. Wildfire mismanagement is more like a pattern rather than a singular error. Experts argue that a pattern of “fire suppression” is not the best approach. Although it sounds counterintuitive, it’s sometimes better to let a wildfire site burn rather than try to put it out, as it has been the dominant strategy for decades.
Gather Supplies
Readyforwildfire.org says that an emergency supply kit is an essential part of wildfire preparedness. Keep in mind that you should assemble an emergency supply kit for each person—not just one for the whole family. Each person can use a backpack or something similar to hold all essentials and be ready to go if an emergency necessitates a quick evacuation.
You can place food and water in a tub or chest with wheels, making it easier to move. It’s essential to have these things ready beforehand because there may not be time to look for and gather these items during an emergency. Additionally, with the stress of the situation, you and your family could forget several necessities.
Use Fire Resistant Materials for your Home
Fire-resistant materials are available for parts of your home. For example, builders can compose the roof and exterior structure with fire-resistant or noncombustible materials. You can also use fire-retardant chemicals to treat the wood or combustible materials you might have in your roof, siding, decking, or trim. By using these materials or treatments, the exterior of your home will be much less susceptible to fire.
Have Access to a Water Source in Case you Need it
It’s vital to locate and maintain a suitable outside water source. It could be a hydrant, well, swimming pool, cistern, or a small pond. It’s also a good idea to keep a garden hose on hand that is long enough for all areas of your home and other buildings you may have on your property.
You can have exterior water outlets installed on the sides of your home and near any other buildings on your land. For maximum coverage, experts recommend additional outlets be at least 50 feet from your house. Having ample water access and coverage is vital so that the water can reach whichever part of your home or property requires it quickly.
Consider shutters and fireproof drapes
For your windows, you can use protective shutters and drapes that are fire-resistant. Using these types of materials for your window dressings will help slow the spread of the fire and protect your home. This is important because the less material there is for the fire to consume, the more likely you are to sustain less significant damages.
Prevent embers from entering the home
One of the ways a home can fall victim to a wildfire is if the embers enter the house. Embers can enter through a doggy door, chimney, roof, windows, and exterior cracks. Use a 1/8th inch hardware cloth to cover outside vent openings. Close and seal off a doggy door during fire season. Replace missing shingles. Caulk exterior cracks. These small steps can help keep the fire outside the home and away from any number of flammable items inside, including carpet and furniture.