At Wildfire Partners, we believe mitigation and emergency preparedness are year-round commitments that go hand in hand. That’s why this new year, we’re finding ways to encourage these activities throughout the seasons. Especially during winter months.
To kick off the year, we’d like to introduce some of our top safety resolutions to increase emergency preparedness. Ready to learn how you can master emergency preparedness this winter? Here’s what you need to know to get started.
What Is Emergency Preparedness?
Whether you’re dealing with wildfire safety or other types of emergency, preparation beforehand could be the step that keeps you safe. That’s why familiarizing yourself with emergency preparedness can take your safety to the next level.
The term emergency preparedness refers to precautionary measures one can take to be as ready as possible for an emergency event.
With winter weather upon us, emergency preparedness makes for a great way to continue wildfire preparedness inside the home when working outside becomes limited.
5 Emergency Preparedness Tasks to Tackle This Winter
Now that you’re familiar with emergency preparedness, here are our top 5 ways to start practicing the process this new year!
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
Boulder County offers extensive emergency alert systems that work to inform county residents of ongoing emergencies and disasters. Take a look at these helpful links and subscribe to county led emergency alerts to be notified of emergencies in real time.
• Boulder County Emergency Directory Page
• Boulder Office of Disaster Management (ODM)
Create A Home Inventory
Creating a home inventory is an easy way to provide a detailed record to insurance agencies when claiming loss in the wake of a wildfire emergency. To do so, use your camera to record a video that documents any personal items in your home or on your property. Here are some quick tips:
• Narrate your video and describe the history of sentimental items or the distinguishing features items have.
• Avoid a quick scan as detailed videos provide more information.
• Make note of serial numbers on computers or tech devices.
• Include large items like appliances, furniture, washers, or dryers.
• Document items in tool sheds, garages, basements, attics, or any unique places in your home.
Once you’ve documented all personal items, upload the video to your cloud to store safely for future reference.
Create a Grab List
Create a written list of the important items you’ll want to grab when you’re told to evacuate. Post in a prominent (or easy to remember) location in your home. That way you’ll be sure not to forget the critical items like medicines, pets and their critical items, important memorabilia, etc.
Develop A Pet Rescue Plan
Before an emergency, put together an evacuation plan for your pets. Coordinate with a neighbor to assist in pet rescue in the event that you’re not home and unable to rescue them yourself. And make note of any hiding spots your pet might have so you or someone entering your home can find and evacuate them quickly.
If necessary, set aside an emergency bag that includes any food, medication, or tools you might need for your pet’s care. Finally, be sure to inform those that are helping evacuate your pets of any unique names or commands they’ll respond to in order to expedite evacuation.
Plan And Practice An Evacuation Route
To round off this list, prepare at least two evacuation routes you can use during an emergency and pick a meeting spot in case you become separated from family. Planning and practicing your evacuation route regularly will support a safe exit from a fire, while also providing multiple routes in case others are inaccessible during an emergency.
Wildfire Partners Is Here to Help
Wildfire mitigation entails much more than protecting the exterior of your home. The process also calls for community education, support, and collaboration. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about mitigation education, take a look at our outreach & education page or contact us for further assistance!
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