Essential Guide to Wildfire Preparedness
2024-10-11
Wildfire season officially starts March 1 and runs until October 31 each year. Wildfires pose significant risks to property and safety. To safeguard your home, and business, proactive preparation is crucial. This guide outlines essential steps to enhance your wildfire readiness, ensuring you can effectively manage the impact and recover swiftly in the event of a wildfire. In this article, we will cover what to do to prep for your home and business (if applicable), and how to prepare for an evacuation.
Home
Verify Your Homeowner’s Policy Coverage Limit: Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover wildfire damage, but it is essential to ensure you have adequate replacement coverage. This will help you rebuild your home with similar quality materials if it is destroyed. Regularly review your policy to confirm it provides the necessary coverage to fully recover from a loss.
Inventory Your Belongings: Record a video to document your property and belongings. In the event of a loss, this inventory will be crucial for obtaining insurance funds. Store this video off-site along with appraisals for valuable items, such as fine art or jewelry, and a copy of your insurance policy.
Comply with Brush Clearance Requirements: Maintain a defensible space around your home -
- Safety Zone: Landscape with a 9-meter safety zone or 30 meters if on a slope. Remove ladder fuels that link ground cover to treetops.
- Additional Tips: Trim overhanging branches, remove vines from exterior walls, and clear areas around propane tanks. Avoid stacking firewood next to your home.
Protect and Maintain Your Home:
- Inspection: Clean chimneys and gutters regularly, and use fire-resistant materials for roofing and exterior structures.
- Maintenance: Consider masonry walls or chain-link fencing, and keep ladders and fire tools accessible. Install dual-sensor smoke alarms and use mesh screens below decks and porches. Apply fire-retardant material to your home’s exterior and surrounding vegetation at the start of each fire season.
Emergency Preparedness:
- Escape Plan: Create and review an emergency escape plan, posting it with emergency contact numbers.
- Property Preparation: Ensure that you have a clear evacuation route, display address clearly, and prepare a “go-bag” with essentials. Follow evacuation orders promptly and inform family of your relocation plans.
Business
Pre-Planning
- Business Continuity: Develop and practice a wildfire evacuation plan. Prepare an emergency kit and backup critical data.
- Local Notifications: Subscribe to local emergency notification systems and follow local authority instructions.
Risk Management
- Insurance Coverage: Review and ensure adequate insurance coverage for wildfire damage. Consult with your insurance broker for updates and support.
- Emergency Response: Establish emergency procedures and train employees on evacuation and safety protocols.
Evacuation Readiness
If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or close down. Keep a vehicle emergency kit and include an extra phone charger with necessary adapters.
Emergency Kit for Vehicles Prepare your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes:
- Basic Supplies: Non-perishable food, water, and a first aid kit.
- Emergency Tools: Flashlight, extra batteries, and a portable phone charger.
- Important Documents: Copies of your insurance policy, registration, and personal identification.
Vehicle Preparation
- Parking: Keep your vehicle parked in a safe area away from vegetation and flammable materials. Ensure it is in good working condition and has a full tank of gas.
Plan: Develop and practice an evacuation route for your vehicle. Ensure that you are ready for quick departure if evacuation is necessary.
Effective wildfire preparedness involves understanding risks, securing adequate insurance, and implementing proactive measures for your home, vehicle, and business. Consult with your insurance broker to tailor your preparedness plan and ensure you are ready to recover quickly in the event of a wildfire.
Content Courtesy: HUB International, Alberta.ca
Additional Resources: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-preparedness