BEING PREPARED FOR EVACUATION
When evacuations are expected, and when time allows, give your possessions and your home the best possible chance of enduring wildfire buy taking these steps:
Home Evacuation Checklist:
BEFORE THE INCIDENT:
- Ensure your property has passed the IFPD annual abatement and wildfire ready clearance inspection(s).
- Keep critical belongings in an easily accessible location. (prepackaged if possible)
- Have at least 1 week’s supply of your required medications. (speak with your Doctor about the possibility of a “standing prescription” for your medications)
- Have a 3-day supply of your pets needs on hand including their medications and food.
- Let us know in advance of any special needs you or anyone living with you may have.
- Keep a list containing the names and phone numbers of your contacts and family members.
- Have a pre plan of gathering locations with your family and friends.
When Evacuation notifications are made: (tune to 1610 am WNKI)
- Follow the instructions of your official emergency service providers. (Fire and Law enforcement)
Hardening your Home:
- Close all windows and doors. (leave them unlocked).
- Remove flammable window shades, curtains and blinds.
- Relocate all flammable furniture to the center of rooms, away from windows and doors.
- Shut off your LP gas at the tank; turn off all pilot lights.
- Leave your lights on so that emergency responders can see your home during dark and smoky conditions.
- Shut off the air conditioning and furnace.
Your Yard:
- Move or remove flammable items away from the exterior of your home: Relocate them away from the home. If necessary, place them inside the garage or home. (patio furniture, children’s toys, door mats, trash cans, etc.)
- Turn off propane tanks.
- Move propane BBQ appliances away from structures.
- Connect garden hoses to outside water valves or spigots for use by firefighters. Fill water buckets and place them around the house.
- Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running, they can adversely affect the critical water supply and pressure.
Be ready to Go:
- Notify your Family / Friends. (let them know that you are evacuating and ensure that they know your action plan.)
- Place your Emergency Supply Kit in your vehicle.
- Back your car into the driveway with the vehicle loaded and all vehicle doors and windows closed. (Carry your car keys with you.)
- If you have a ladder available place it at the corner of the house for firefighters to quickly access your roof.
- Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals.
- Patrol your property and monitor the fire situation. Do NOT wait for an evacuation order if you feel threatened.
- Check on neighbors and make sure that they are also preparing to leave.
Animals:
- Locate your pets early and keep them nearby.
- Prepare farm and larger animals for transport and move them to a safe location early.
Questions:
Please contact us should you have any questions, comments or need for clarifications.