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Severe Weather and Wildfire Preparedness: How to Stay Safe
Severe weather events and wildfires can strike with little warning, posing significant risks to lives and property. Proper preparation is essential to minimize damage and ensure safety. Here’s how you can stay ready for these natural disasters.
Severe Weather Preparedness
Severe weather includes thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail, wind, and extreme winter storms. Follow these key steps to prepare:
1. Stay Informed- having multiple ways to receive notifications is key
• Monitor weather alerts through the National Weather Service (NWS), radio, TV and mobile apps.
2. Create an Emergency Plan
• Identify a safe shelter in your home, such as a basement or interior room.
• Establish a communication plan with family members in case you get separated.
• Know the evacuation routes in your area.
-Plan for your pet(s) and their needs
-Share your plan with family and neighbors
3. Build an Emergency Kit
Your kit should include:
• Non-perishable food and water (at least three days’ supply), don’t forget to add items for your pet(s).
• Flashlights, batteries, and a weather radio.
• First aid supplies and necessary medications.
• Important documents in a waterproof container.
4. Protect Your Home
• Secure outdoor furniture and trim trees to prevent storm damage.
• Reinforce windows and doors to withstand strong winds.
• Ensure your home insurance covers weather-related damages.
Wildfire Preparedness
Wildfires can spread rapidly, especially in dry and windy conditions. Here’s how to be ready:
1. Stay Aware of Fire Risks
• Check fire danger ratings and local burn bans.
-Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts
2. Defend Your Property
• Maintain defensible space by clearing dry vegetation around your home.
• Store firewood, propane tanks, and flammable materials away from your house.
• Use fire-resistant building materials when possible.
3. Prepare for Evacuation
• Have a “Go Bag” with essentials: clothing, medications, documents, and pet supplies.
• Know multiple evacuation routes in case roads become impassable.
• If ordered to evacuate, leave immediately to avoid being trapped.
Final Thoughts
Preparedness can make all the difference when facing severe weather or wildfires. By staying informed, creating a plan, and having emergency supplies ready, you can protect yourself, your family, and your home from potential disasters.
