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Wildfires

Know the Facts

Learn how to keep you and your  family safe in the event of a wildfire.

What is a Wildfire?

  • Wildfires can destroy homes or cause injuries and death to people and their pets.
  •  A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. 

    • They can cause flooding, loss of power, and disrupt communication 

    What Causes Wildfires?

    • Wild fires are often caused by humans or lightning.

    • Risk increases with in periods of little rain and high winds.


    Who is at Risk?

    People located in areas are at high risk


    • a lot of grass, trees, dense brush

    • steeper slopes can increase the speed and intensity of wildfire

    • drought conditions in certain areas also increase wildfire risk.

    Can they be prevented? 

    Human Causes of Wildfires 

    Campfires and Bonfires

    Smoking

    Yard Waste or Rubbish Burns

    Fireworks

    Cars, Tools & Other Combustion Engines

    for more information visit smokeybear.com

    How Will I be Notified?

    The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.

    Plan Ahead

    • 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. Practice the plans and getting to shelter.

    • Collect emergency supplies, include N95 respirator masks that filter out particles in the air you breathe. Remember to include special needs like family members medications.

    • Select  a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. 

    • Keep important documents in a fireproof safe.

    • Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate, or make repairs.

    • Find hose that can reach any area of your property and connect it to an outside water source if possible.

    • Create an area that free of leaves, debris, or flammable materials for at least 30 feet from your home.

    • Pay attention to air quality alerts.

    Respond and Survive 

    • Evacuate immediately if you are told to do so by authorities.

    • If trapped,  call 911 and give your location, Turn on lights to help rescuers find you. Remember emergency response could be delayed

    • Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.

    • Use an N95 masks to keep harmful particles out of the air you breathe.

    • If you are not told to evacuate, stay inside in a safe place or go to a community building where there is less smoke.

    Stay Safe After 

    • Wait for authorities to tell you when it is safe to return home.

    • Listen to authorities to find out if the water is safe to drink.

    • Be aware of heat pockets in the ground, hot ash, charred trees and live embers they can burn you or start another fire.

    •  Make calls only in emergencies. Phone systems a busy after a disaster. Free the phone lines for emergency calls and use text or social media for non-emergency instead.

    • The risk of flooding increases for up to five years after  a wildfire. Click here to learn more

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