According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, wildfires can happen anytime. They can quickly spread, putting your house and  lives at risk. If you live in an area prone to wildfires, you must have an evacuation plan. 

In this post, we'll talk about how to plan for a wildfire evacuation if things go awry. 

How to Prepare for a Wildfire Evacuation

1. Stay informed.
2. Create an evacuation plan. 
3. Prepare an emergency kit.
4. Protect your home. 
5. Plan for your pets and livestock. 

Here’s how to plan for a wildfire evacuation properly: 

1. Stay informed.

First of all, you must stay informed because you won't know when you need to evacuate if you don't. 

Keep a close eye on the weather and fire conditions in your area. You can get information from local news outlets, emergency alert systems, and social media. 

Having a hand crank radio will also be a great idea because it can provide the alerts you need without relying on electricity. The said radio can provide emergency alerts even if the power goes out. 

2. Create an evacuation plan.

Having an evacuation plan in place helps you act quickly during an emergency. Your plan should include a meeting place, evacuation routes, and a safe location to evacuate to. 

Once done, make sure everyone in your household knows about the plan and how to implement it. Gather everyone and practice the plan so everyone knows exactly what to do in a wildfire emergency.

3. Prepare an emergency kit. 

Put together an emergency kit that includes the following:

• Water
• Water filter straw
• Non-perishable food
• Medicine
• First-aid kit
• Clothes
• Walkie-talkie
• Flashlight
• Survival bag
• Hand crank radio

You can add more items to your emergency kit depending on your needs. 

Then, keep your emergency kit in an accessible location that everyone in your household knows of. Your kit should also be ready to go at a moment's notice. If you want to know how to make the best family bug out bag, check out the piece we made. 

4. Protect your home.

You should also protect your home since no one will after you evacuate. Clear any debris from your property, trim any overhanging tree limbs, and create a defensible space around your home. 

You should also clear flammable materials away from your home, such as firewood or propane tanks. Be sure to regularly clean your gutters and roof to prevent the buildup of dry leaves or debris that could ignite.

If you have a fire pit or grill, put it at least 30 feet away from any structures, since structure fires can make wildfires worse. Check out this how to fireproof your home guide for more tips. 

5. Plan for your pets and livestock. 

If you have pets or livestock, include them in your evacuation plan. Make arrangements for their care, transportation, shelter, food, and water. 

Conclusion

Don't panic and remember that your lives matter the most during a wildfire evacuation. Follow the guidelines and bring your emergency kit.