Wildfires have serious environmental and human impacts, putting properties, people, livelihoods, and quality of life at risk. Unfortunately, these risks are only growing. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that wildfire seasons are becoming longer, with an increase in wildfire frequency and burned areas as a result of climate change. As fire season gears up here in the U.S., these are some preparations you can take to protect your health and stay safe when living in wildfire-affected areas.
Stay Indoors
If you’re someone who suffers from respiratory conditions like asthma or lung disease, smoke-filled air from nearby fires can exacerbate your symptoms. Use the AirNow website from the EPA to monitor air quality where you live, and try to stay indoors when conditions are poor. This means keeping your home stocked with necessities such as food, water, and medications so you can avoid spending prolonged periods of time outdoors until the air quality improves.
Try to keep your windows and doors closed when possible, and avoid engaging in activities that could compromise indoor air quality, like burning candles, frying food, using wood-burning stoves, or spraying aerosols. You can also consider investing in a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter to help improve your symptoms.
Prepare a “Go” Bag
At the same time, you should be prepared to evacuate the property in a moment’s notice when an evacuation order is imposed in your area.
It’s recommended to have a “go” bag ready so you can leave your home as quickly as possible. This should include copies of important documents, spare clothes, a first aid kit, flashlights, necessary medications, and cash. On your way out the door, take your phone and charger, your wallet and keys, and anything else that people in your household require.
Clean up Your Property
In addition to protecting your health during wildfire season, there are certain things you can do to protect your property as well. This includes clearing away dense brush and dead vegetation up to 30 feet surrounding your home, which can help prevent or slow down a fire’s spread. Also, trim any tree branches that are lower than six feet above the ground, and ensure there’s at least ten feet between trees near your home.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection also recommends “hardening” your home to make it less susceptible to direct flames, radiant heat, and flying embers. This might include keeping your gutters free from debris, and replacing your deck, siding, and roofing with fire-resistant materials where possible.
Sign up for Emergency Alerts
Finally, your state, county, or city likely offers an emergency alert system that you can sign up for to get timely notifications of fire conditions and warnings where you live. This can help keep you informed on fire dangers, evacuation notices, and other alerts so you can respond quickly to an emergency. Make sure to follow all instructions and evacuation notices from local officials to stay safe during a wildfire.
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Written by Bailey Schramm in partnership with Marv Golden pilot supplies.
