How to Prepare for a Wildfire

In honor of September – National Preparedness Month – we’ll be writing about the four focuses from ready.gov, one of which is wildfires. Due to ready access to water, artificial firebreaks such as roads, and fast responders, city fires rarely endanger more than the next neighboring building. However, a fire that starts in the wilderness, especially after a dry year, can expand rapidly. And without the quick and powerful response of city services it can endanger those who live in or near it. So while having a house in the sticks can be a great home, it’s also a great responsibility.

Preparing for a Wildfire

If you live in a place wildfires can strike, there are several things you can do. From large changes to your landscape, to last-minute preparation, here are a few things you can do to prepare for a wildfire:

Protect Your Home

A large part of protecting your home is making sure the fire can’t reach it. With this in mind, make a defensible space around your home by removing flammable vegetation. This can be due as part of a larger landscape project. Also make sure deadfall such as leave and branches are cleaned up and removed and the gutters are regularly cleaned. When replacing the roofing, always make sure the replacement is Class B or higher.

Be Ready for an Evacuation

If a wildfire occurs in your area, you will have to evacuate. Beyond making an emergency plan, you should have the following on standby in case you have to leave quickly.

• Legal documents such as property deeds, licenses, titles, and certificates.
• Updated home inventory lists with photos for insurance claims.
• Prescription medications and health insurance cards.
• A week’s worth of clothing and vital equipment (such as diapers or the pet’s carrier).

In addition if you have time, get your home ready for firefighters by providing roof access with a ladder, wetting down the roof or enable roof sprinklers, and making sure to shut off propane or butane at the source.

Be Firefighter Friendly

It becomes increasingly difficult for firefighters to save your home if they don’t have access. This means access to property and access to water. Are the roads and bridges leading to your home up to code? Can they carry emergency vehicles as well as be wide enough to turn around on? Is the road to your home clear and well-marked? Does your home have an emergency water supply for the firefighters to use, such as a community hydrant system, cooperative storage tanks with neighbors, or a storage tank on your premise?

Insure Your Property

The best way to prepare for a wildfire is to be insured against it. Homeowners Insurance provides coverage to your home and personal property within it. Even if the fire doesn’t damage or destroy your home, smoke damage and additional living expenses during the evacuation can cost you. Basic vehicle insurance doesn’t cover damage or destruction due to fire. You’ll need Comprehensive Insurance. If you’re interested in learning more about preparing and insuring against wildfires, please contact H&K Insurance in Watertown, MA. We’ll guide you through residential and commercial polices, and find the right one for your circumstances and location.