Being Prepared for Wildfires

Colorado fires - Click for full size imageThe key to being prepared is prevention. In 1995 there were approximately 130,000 wildfires. Of those, about 10,000 were caused by lightning and the remaining 120,000 were caused by careless people! The Only You Can Prevent Wildfires web site has useful information on ways to help prevent wildfires.

If you live in an area with a potential for wildfires, such as in or near a forested or grassland area, there are also some things you can do around your home to help reduce the risk of fire damage. This document has extensive information on firewise landscaping.

  • Begin by creating a safety zone of about 100 feet around your home. Clear away leaves, branches and all flammable vegetation.
  • Have a smoke detector and an escape plan with several routes and practice.
  • Have at least a couple of escape routes away from your home in the event you need to evacuate.

All homes should have at least one working smoke detector and it would be better to have one on each floor of your house. Be sure to test the smoke detector at least once a year and change the battery every year too.

Sources:
FEMA for Kids
Firewise.org
Firewise Landscaping Checklist
Image courtesy NOAA / National Climatic Data Center
Additional information can be found at the following sites:
The Red Cross - Wildfire
Page by: Emily