Five Wildfire Prep Tips

March 23, 2017

2017 is gearing up to be a record-setting year for wildfires in the U.S.   According to the National Interagency Fire Center, 10,829 wildfires burned 2,062,012 acres throughout the U.S. so far this year.  The amount of acres burned this season is “roughly 10 times the average and also the most acres burned as of mid-March since 2006” according to a National Interagency Fire Center spokeswoman, reported on USA Today.

These fires burn quickly and can be difficult to contain, leading to evacuations and devastating loss.  With the high probability that we will see more fires this year, take these steps provided by the Kansas Insurance Department to reduce the risk of home and property loss during continued wildfire activity:

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  • Do a survey of the landscape surrounding your house.  Move plants or trees that are too close to your dwelling or burn easily.  Clear dead leaves or tree seedlings away from your roof, gutters, decks or fence lines.
  • Evaluate openings around your house that could allow embers to get into your home to see if they can be temporarily sealed.
  • Store away patio furniture, decorations or other flammable outdoor material.
  • Remove landscaping mulch from near your house.
  • If evacuation is ordered, shut all doors and windows tightly.  Decide in advance what type of emergency kit your family would need, including first aid, blankets, personal hygiene items, prescriptions, cell phones and clothing.  Turn of the gas to your house and hose it down if you have time.
  • Keep communication equipment charged and in working order.  Be sure your family members know how to contact each other.
Resources

https://www.nifc.gov/fireInfo/nfn.htm

http://www.usatoday.com/story/weather/2017/03/20/record-start-wildfire-season/99411716/

http://www.ksinsurance.org/department/news/news-releases.php

http://www.ksinsurance.org/documents/department/news-releases/Wildfire-assistance-3-17.pdf


This blog entry is created for informational purposes only.  Any viewpoint or sponsorship of outside parties involved in the blog entry does not necessarily represent Goodville's stance as a company.  The blog should not be used as a substitute for professional advice.