Fight Back Against Wildfires

A persistent drought, coupled with unseasonably high temperatures and gusty winds, have led to a record number of wildfires this year.

From January 1 through March 22, more than 17,000 wildfires have been reported, with 1.5 million-plus acres burned across the country, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

More wildfires are coming.

So far, the number of fires eclipses the five-year average of slightly more than 11,000 fires for the same period. The acreage burned this year is triple the 549,866 acres of 2000, the previous high in the last six years.

Weather and fire officials said they fear what has occurred in Texas and Oklahoma, where the greatest damage has been reported so far this year, could be a preview of what is possible for wide swaths of the Southwest and Great Plains over the next few months.

Why?

Rainfall over the past few years has helped to grow the grasses and underbrush. However, the drought and lack of moisture over the winter dried out the grasses, making them ready fuel for fires with outbreaks more intense and wide-ranging than normal, The U.S. wildfire season is year-round, with certain regions more vulnerable to fires during different parts of the year.

The regions most vulnerable are the Southwest, Southern Plains, Florida, and Southern California. A seasonal outlook by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), issued in conjunction with the National Interagency Fire Center, listed the potential as above normal from February to June for those regions.

If you live in wildfire region, here is how you can fight back.

Protect Your Home

Thin trees and brush throughout your property so a fire has nothing to jump to and there is little burnable material to start a wildfire. As well as thinning brush and trees, remove trash and debris from around your home as well as any trees growing near your home. Clear roof and gutters of leaves and debris as well as remove branches overhanging chimney and roof. Clear vegetation around fire hydrants, cisterns, propane tanks, etc.. Stack firewood uphill or on a contour away from the home. Use noncombustible roof materials.

Place shutters, fire curtains or heavy drapes on windows and screens on foundation and eave vents as well as enclosing the sides of stilt foundations and decks. Use a chimney screen or spark arrester.

Be sure your home has an outdoor water supply with hose, nozzle and pump. Make sure fire tools, ladder and fire extinguishers are available. Post address signs that are clearly visible from the street or road.

Make sure the driveway is wide enough for fire trucks and equipment. And, install and test smoke detectors.

Those last three moves could save both your family and your home.

Protect Your Family

Create a disaster supply kit now before disaster strikes. The kit should include a supply of drinking water; one change of clothing and footwear for each member of the family; a blanket or sleeping bag for each person; a first aid kit that also includes all prescription medications each loved one takes; emergency tools including a battery-powered or, even better, a windup radio, flashlight and extra batteries; an extra set of car keys and credit cards, cash or traveler's checks; and extra pairs of eyeglasses and other special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.

Prearrange for temporary housing with a friend or relative whose home is outside the threatened area. If disaster strikes, leave a note in a prominent place in your home that says where and how you can be contacted. And have important documents either in a safe deposit box in a local bank or, for documents you need with you, take them with you in your disaster kit. Know where all your important documents are at home as you will not have time to search for them if a wildfire threatens your home.

If a wildfire is threatening your area, listen to your radio for updated reports and evacuation information. If your home is threatened by wildfire, you will be contacted and advised by law enforcement officers to evacuate. If you are not contacted, or you decide to stay and help defend your home, evacuate pets and any family members not needed to protect your home. When evacuating, wear protective clothing: sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothing, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, and a handkerchief to protect your face. Choose a route away from the fire if possible. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of the fire and smoke. A wildfire is a devastating force.

You and your family though do not have to be a wildfire's victims.

~ SafetyIssues Staff Writer