While house fires can happen to anyone, wildfires that spread to homes and neighborhoods tend to happen in more specific areas that have dry, hot summers. These types of fires usually make it possible for homeowners to evacuate before the fire gets too close to them and causes fire damage to their property. But if you’re going to need to evacuate, there are a few things you should have ready beforehand to make this whole process easier to manage.
To help you with this, here are three tips for preparing your home and family for fires in your area.
Consider Installing A Fire Sprinkler System
If you live in an area of the world where wildfires are common and areas close to your home have had out-of-control fires in the past, it might be a good idea to take extra precautions to protect your home.
One way you can do this is to have a fire sprinkler system installed in your home. While these are more common on commercial buildings, having an automatic fire sprinkler system in your residence can make it possible for you to keep a fire from consuming the entirety of the structure. While you will have to deal with water damage if the sprinkler system ever gets turned on, this could be a much better alternative to having your entire home burned up.
Talk To Your Kids About Close Fires
While you might be able to live with the fact that wildfires happen and your home is in an area where this risk is increased, this can be something that’s hard to come to terms with for your kids. So before it comes to the point where you’d have to throw everyone in the car and get out of there, you should talk with your kids anytime there’s a fire that gets close.
As part of this conversation, explain to your kids where the fire is and what you’ll do if it moves closer to your home. Teach them about fire safety and what to do if they get close to a fire that’s out of control. This little heads-up can be incredibly helpful for your entire family.
Have Your “Go Bags” Ready
Because there’s always a chance that you might have to evacuate your home due to a wildfire, it’s wise to always have “go bags” ready to grab at a moment’s notice.
In these bags, you should keep enough supplies to last you for about three days of not being able to come back home. Include things like water, food, extra clothes, medications, first aid supplies, an extra phone charger, and anything else that you feel might be helpful for your situation.
If you live somewhere where wildfires can and do happen, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you prepare your home and family for this possibility.
