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View Winners → Are You Prepared for Wildfires?
Arcadia Weekly Jul 19, 2012
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By Krishna Rajagopalan
As one that has lived through the oppressive effects of the Station Fire, I firmly believe that there are steps that we can take to help us prepare for such an incident. Wildfires can happen anywhere and at anytime and this underscores the importance of being prepared for such a disaster. The following are steps that I took during the Station Fire to ensure my safety as well as the safety of those around me. I believe the following steps will help anyone who is in need of preparation advice for natural disasters such as wildfires.
1. Create an emergency plan of action with your family. This plan should include items that are most valuable to you that you would like to take with you during the evacuation process. It should also include ideas as to where you plan to stay after evacuation such as a friend’s house, emergency shelter, hotel, etc.
2. Make sure that your home is equipped with a first-aid kit as well as a fire extinguisher.
3. Make sure to keep non-perishable food with you, should you be away from your home for several days (i.e. granola bars, water, bread, raisins, nuts, etc.).
4. Stay tuned to the local news for updates on wildfires in your area. This will help in predicting when you may be told to evacuate.
5. Have a back-up set of clothes to take with you when you are told to evacuate. This is especially useful if you are going to be away from home for a long period of time.
6. In the event that you are told to evacuate by the local authorities, be sure to heed their directions and ask them how much time you will have to gather any last-minute belongings.
7. You should always have a set of toiletries with you in case of any type of emergency including wildfires (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, comb, toothbrush, etc.).
8. If you have pets, be sure you account for them in case of an unexpected emergency. This may involve finding a place to leave them such as a local animal shelter if they are not allowed to the evacuation shelter.
9. Be sure to clear brush from your property if told to do so by the fire department. This will ensure that should a fire occur it will not spread due to dry vegetation.
10. STAY CALM! If you are calm during an emergency that will likely ease the tensions of those around you. As a result you will be able to think clearly and make sure that you follow all of the steps listed above.
