Firefighters offer tips on how to prepare for wildfires
Evacuation plans and easily accessible necessities are key, according to officials.
If a wildfire sweeps through your neighborhood and you are forced to evacuate, gather your family members and dash out the door. But here are five tips firefighters recommend to ensure that you, your home and your family are prepared:
* Everyone should devise an evacuation plan, said Inspector Frank Garrido, spokesman for the Los Angeles County Fire Department. "Most people drive out the same way everyday," he said. So find a different way to rush out of the neighborhood. Family members should agree on where to meet in the event that they are separated and whom they should call to check in.
* Keep a copy of all important papers -- such as the deed to your home, medical files, insurance policies and family photographs -- in a handy fire-safe box and in an easily accessible location, Garrido said. Don't forget a copy of your computer hard drive as well. In that box, also plan on keeping pictures and an inventory of all your belongings for your insurance company.
* Remove combustible plants, trees and materials from around your home that may fuel an oncoming fire, Garrido said. Trim overhanging ornamental trees near the eves of your roof and move piles of wood stacked outside against your home. This applies in particular to people in residential areas in wild land areas such as Santa Clarita, Malibu and the foothills of mountains. People should move flammable materials to at least 10 feet away from their homes.
* In the event that a fire forces you to leave your home, shut all windows and close drapes, Garrido said. Drapes help reflect heat away from inside the home, he said. Also, leave your property easily accessible for firefighters by leaving side gates open.
* Before you are evacuated, make sure to keep a battery-operated radio, flashlight and well-charged cellphone handy so that you can stay informed, Garrido said. If cellphone lines are affected, text messaging may be slow but will still work because it operates on a different frequency, he said.
Wagner is a Times staff writer.
james.wagner@latimes.com
