Once again, it’s wildfire season in the American West. This year, exceedingly hot and dry conditions are leading to record-shattering wildfire activity.
Consulting with a company specializing in residential land surveying in Idaho is a great way to learn more about ways that you can make your property less susceptible to wildfire damage.
Preparing for a wildfire in advance is a good way to reduce your risk of property damage and personal injury.
Personal preparation
Here are a few steps you can take to prepare yourself and your family members for the potential of a wildfire:
- Stay informed: Staying well informed is a key to wildfire survival. If there is an active wildfire in your area, you should pay close attention to local radio, television and emergency services reports. In some instances, it may become difficult for rescue workers to issue evacuation notices in person, so pay close attention at all times.
- Make a safety kit: You should have a fully stocked wildfire safety kit on hand at all times. This should include first aid supplies, lots of water, water purifying tablets, a two-way radio, maps of your area and an emergency beacon. Using these materials should always be a last resort, but you’ll be thankful you have them when and if you need them.
- Follow evacuation orders: If you’ve received an evacuation notice for your area, don’t delay. Wildfire fatalities are almost always the result of a failure to obey local evacuation orders. Be sure to pay close attention to ongoing recommendations from your local officials.
Property preparation
There are a number of steps you can take to mitigate the risk of suffering from substantive property damage thanks to a wildfire. Here are just a few things that you can do to reduce the risk of wildfire damage at your home or commercial space before you evacuate:
- Remove combustibles: Take any large stockpiles of charcoal, wood or fuel out of your home and garage, and set them on the perimeter of your property. The last thing that you want to do is feed an advancing fire.
- Close off windows: Closing off all of your home’s windows and doors can prevent drafts from forming, and can help you stave off an advancing wildfire. Without proper oxygenation, a fire won’t thrive.
- Turn off fuel supplies: If you have the time, shut off any natural gas, propane or electrical lines supplying your home. These could feed a fire, and make the damage to your property much worse.
- Fill vessels with water: Filling your bathtub, garbage cans, swimming pools and more with water can help you stop the spread of a fire. If you have the time, try to fill as many large vessels with water prior to your evacuation.
Since 1989, Mason & Associates has been one of the premier companies specializing in residential land surveying in Idaho. We can provide you with detailed surveying data that demonstrates the strengths and shortcomings of your property, and shows you ways that you can increase your fire preparedness. Contact us today to learn more.