Wildfire season generally occurs in the summer and fall months when conditions are dry and hot, but they can occur any time vegetation, terrain, and climate of the region are optimal. To make sure you’re prepared, here are some tips to help you stay safe and protect your property.

Before a Wildfire

• Sign up for warning systems in your community. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio are two sources, and there are numerous other wildfire-specific mobile phone apps in online stores.
• Be familiar with your community’s evacuation plans, emergency shelters, and evacuation routes.
• Create a communication and meet-up plan with family/loved ones.
• Prepare an emergency supply kit, including an N95 respirator mask and items/medications any person or pets need for specific conditions, such as asthma.
• Have a plan for all pets and livestock.
• Keep important documents in fireproof places and create online copies.
• Put important telephone numbers in your fireproof box and phone contact list.
• Designate a safe area where all doors and windows can be closed to outside air and position a portable air cleaner to clear indoor pollution in that safe area.
• Create a 30- to 100-foot fire-resistant safety zone around your home that is free of debris, leaves, and flammable materials.
• Make sure an outdoor water resource is available close to your property with a hose that can reach your structures.
• Use fire-resistant materials when building structures.
• Review insurance policies and make sure you have coverage for wildfires.

During a Wildfire

• Staying safe is your first priority.
• Stay inside a safe location where smoke levels are low.
• Use the N95 mask to help you breathe, if necessary.
• Don’t use candles for light if the power goes off. This will increase the danger of a fire.
• Stay away from outside walls and windows.
• If trapped, call 9-1-1 and inform authorities of your location.
• Listen to the radio for emergency information and evacuate immediately if told to do so.

After a Wildfire

• Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
• Do not touch electrical equipment, and avoid hot ash, charred trees, and live embers.
• If you had property damage, document the damage in photographs and report the insurance claim as soon as possible.
• Request a field adjuster to inspect your property when reporting your claim to your insurance carrier.
• Keep any receipts from purchases or services used because of the loss. Your claim representative may request these for reimbursement purposes.

These helpful tips are just part of good preparation when facing wildfires. To make sure you have the proper coverage in place for all your prized possessions, reach out to our personal insurance team at 1-833-546-2872.

SOURCE:  Western Fire Chiefs Association