106,260 US wildfires occur per year on average, according to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC). Majority of these fires occur on the west coast of the United States in states such as California, Washington, and Colorado. Wildfires are ignited by lightning, climate, arson, or just human error. Although, wildfires can become a disaster in a number of seconds, they are also useful to the environment due to eliminating dead vegetation. Wildfires have taken many lives and have destroyed houses that reside along their deadly path. Even though the media has given us vivid images and videos of what wildfires are capable of is still not enough to deter people from retiring and building homes in these fire prone areas. Anyone who lives in an area that is highly prone to wildfires should ensure their community is resilient and are highly prepared for the unexpected. Mitigation efforts should be top priority in these type of communities to enforce safety prevention for these events.
Programs such as Firewise Communities/USA Recognition Program is a program that has a goal to reduce the loss of lives, properties, and resources to wildland fire by building and maintaining communities in a way that is compatible with our natural surroundings. One of the most important things Firewise Communities/USA participants learn is neighbors can help neighbors and they are often inextricably linked together in their wildfire safety solutions.
Below I have listed some safety measures that will promote resilience in any community that experiences wildfires.
Prior to the Wildfire
1. Know your area-Always have a map
2. Create an escape plan
3. Make and Emergency Kit
4. Before building your house educate yourself on materials that are less flammable to choose as materials to build your house
5. Do not have flammable plants surrounded your home
6. Ensure that you have and know how to use a fire extinguisher
7. Identify any water supply such as a lake, pond, or ocean that is close to the place you live.
8. Always keep a non-flammable water hose around the house.
During the wildfire
1. Evacuate to planned safe zone and take safety kit
2. Watch for the direction of smoke and fire
3. Call 911 if you haven’t been ordered to evacuate
4. Were protective clothes
5. Shut off Gas
After the wildfire
1. Do not go back to burned areas until notified
2. If you have been burned please cool and cover
3. Recheck you house once it’s safe to ensure there isn't any unnoticeable fires in the roof.
4. Avoid damaged power lines
5. Watch out for ash pits
Using these basic tips can promote resilience in any community and will save lives.
Cites
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Wow, your image choice truly puts the threat Wildfires pose to communities into perspective. I appreciate your before, during, and after procedures. I cannot imagine seeing this on my horizon.
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