Preparing for a landscape fire
If you live in an area prone to landscape fires, here are some tips on how to prepare yourself and your property for an emergency:
- Consult with your local fire department about making your home fire-resistant.
- Check for, and remove, fire hazards in and around your home, such as dried out branches, leaves and debris.
- Keep a good sprinkler in an accessible location.
- Learn fire safety techniques and teach them to members of your family.
- Have fire drills with your family on a regular basis.
- Make sure every floor and all sleeping areas have smoke detectors.
During a landscape fire
- Monitor local radio stations.
- Be prepared to evacuate at any time.
- Remove all patio furniture, umbrellas, tarps and other combustible material from your yard.
- Close all doors in your home, and shut off gas valves and pilot lights.
- Remove flammable drapes, curtains, awnings or other window coverings.
- Keep lights on to aid visibility in case smoke fills the house.
- If sufficient water is available, turn sprinklers on to wet the roof and any water-proof valuables.