Preparing for Forest fires near Dawson Creek
As the weather warms up and summer starts to come in, it means hot sunny days and frightening weather conditions for forest fires. Forest Fires are devastating and terrifying and it is important to know what to do during one. Here are some pointers for how to prepare and stay safe before, during, and after forest fires near Dawson Creek.
Before:
As per the Canadian RedCross, the best way to protect yourself in the case of forest fires near Dawson Creek is to follow three steps:
- Know your risks: Get as much information about the area you live in and the potential forest fire locations
- Make a plan: Make a plan for when a forest fire happens you and your family will be able to follow your plan and make sure everyone is safe.
- Get a Kit: Buy or make your emergency kit.
- Learn fire safety techniques: Be familiar with the stop, drop and roll technique and other safety precaution steps.
- Practice fire drills: Perform drills twice a year and think of an escape plan.
- Install alarms: Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your house. Make sure to test them and check for battery life.
- Fire extinguisher: Keep fire extinguishers close and accessible
During:
- Call 911, make sure you know your address and contact information.
- Keep all windows and doors closed.
- Cover vents, windows, and other openings with duct tape or boards.
- Park your car so it is unobstructed.
- Keep your car packed and have the windows/doors closed.
- Turn off propane or natural gas.
- Turn all your lights in the house on, even the yard lights.
- Remove all materials near a window that can easily catch fire.
- Keep the radio and other news feeds on to get up-to-date information.
- Check on the elderly, sick, or anyone who needs special attention.
After:
- Wait for the building inspector to declare whether or not it is safe to return, If you are unable to return to your home, you need to find temporary housing.
- Clean up the floors, walls, furniture, appliances.
- Fabric and materials need to be checked and aired out.
- Dispose of all medicines, cosmetics, and toiletries that were exposed to extreme heat.
- Take inventory, provide a list of lost damage or items for insurance claims.
- Call someone for house cleaning and fire damage restoration.
- Revise and plan for any future fires.
Other Prevention Methods
Create a buffer zone:
- Plant or replace surrounding vegetation with less flammable species such as columbine.
- Keep vegetation at least 30 feet around your house
- Trim trees and grass
Reinforce your house:
- Install fire-resistant materials on windows, decks, and roofs.
- Clear Debris such as leaves and dead leaves from the area
Create a Safe zone
Plan with your family an area where you can all meet-up and be safe. Ideally, you should move as a family to get somewhere safe. Don’t run to get something from your house, if it isn’t absolutely necessary. It is also important to check with your local fire department for any other details or information crucial for people. By following these tips you can be better prepared for forest fires near Dawson Creek.