Firestorm Disaster Preparedness

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage Restoration in Palo Alto, CA

Firestorms (wildfires) have been increasing in frequency and intensity in recent years. They can ruin homes and cause injuries or death to people and animals. A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. Wildfires can:

• Often be caused by humans or lightning.
• Cause flooding or disrupt transportation, gas, power, and communications.
• Happen anywhere, anytime. Risk increases with in periods of little rain and high winds.
• Cost the Federal Government billions of dollars each year.

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WILDFIRE WARNING IN YOUR AREA, GET TO SAFETY RIGHT AWAY

• Leave if told to do so.
• If trapped, call 9-1-1.
• Listen for emergency information and alerts.
• Use N95 masks to keep particles out of the air you breathe.
• Prepare NOW
  Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
• Know your community’s evacuation plans and find several ways to leave the area.
• Drive the evacuation routes and find shelter locations. Have a plan for pets and livestock.
• Gather emergency supplies, including N95 respirator masks that filter out particles in the air you breathe. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including and updated asthma action plan and medication.
• Don’t forget the needs of pets.
• Designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. Set up a portable air cleaner to keep indoor pollution levels low when smoky conditions exist.
• Keep important documents in a fireproof, safe place. Create password-protected digital copies.
• Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate, or make repairs.
• Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach any area of your property.
• Create a fire-resistant zone that is free of leaves, debris, or flammable materials for at least 30 feet from your home.
• Review insurance coverage to make sure it is enough to replace your property.
  Pay attention to air quality alerts.