Preparing for Wildfires – Steps Oklahomans Should Take from AAA

April 16, 2018 - - As high fire danger continues across Oklahoma, AAA is urging all to minimize risks and be prepared to avoid the devastation of lives and property loss many have already experienced. In 2016, 67,000 wildfires burned more than 5.5 million acres in the U.S., according to the National Interagency Fire Center. More than 4,000 structures, including homes and businesses, were destroyed by wildfires – above the annual average.

“Understanding your risk and preparing ahead of time is the best defense against wildfires,” said Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson. “There are a number of steps you can take to minimize the danger.”

Preparing for wildfire

• Minimize the chances of fire spreading by clearing away dry grass and brush at least 100 feet from your home. Move firewood, grills and anything flammable at least 30 feet away from your house.

   

• Create a wildfire action plan for your family, and review it regularly. Include escape routes and places to meet up, as well as out-of-area phone/email contacts. Make sure every family member is clear on the plan. Think about how you will evacuate pets and animals. Program emergency phone numbers in your cell phone. Keep them written in your wallet in case your cell phone goes dead.

   

• Share emergency contact information with neighbors and others you can depend on who live out of your area.

   

• Walk your family through your house and property, pointing out the items of greatest importance. If (and only if) safety permits, you can grab these items on your way out the door.

   

• Keep your important papers in a fireproof, waterproof box. Include financial documents and account information; legal papers including birth certificates, passports, real estate deeds and wills; insurance information and medical information.

   

• Have a “go bag” ready with clothing, toiletries and other necessities for three days. Click here for suggested items.

   

• Take photos or video inside and outside your home to document your possessions and save them somewhere safe and accessible. Don’t forget the insides of closets, drawers and cabinets. Be sure to include your attic, basement, garage and any outbuildings. You’ll also want shots of any significant items you use to service your property, such as tractors and riding lawn mowers.

   

• Get pets used to leashes, halters, crates and trailers and include them in family emergency drills.

Evacuating

• Listen to news reports and follow the instructions of local fire officials, law enforcement and emergency workers.

   

• Make sure you have identification for all members of your family. You may need identification to get back into your neighborhood if an evacuation has been called.

   

• Leave with as much time to spare as you can. Not only is it safer for you, but the sooner you can leave your home and clear the roads, the easier it will be for firefighters to get their trucks in and start working to protect your home and the surrounding area.

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AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 58million members nationwide and more than 400,000 members in Oklahoma.AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, non-profit corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android.For more information, visitwww.AAA.com.

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