It is wildfire season once again. On June 1, the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) announced that this year’s wildfire season will be worse than before.
On June 7, the NIFC stated that there were ongoing fires in Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. The largest wildfire currently burning in the United States is in New Mexico. The biggest of many fires has burned almost 500 square miles or 1,295 square kilometers in the mountain range of Sangre de Cristo. As of June 7, several hundred homes were estimated to have burned down. Inspections and documentation are not yet complete so the number will most probably increase.
The fire is believed to have started on May 30 by a tree that fell onto power lines during a strong windstorm. It quickly spread through dry brush and trees, pushed by high winds. As of June 7, the fire was only 5% contained. The area is experiencing drought conditions, with little rainfall over the past year. Also,
Meanwhile, on June 6, a brush fire erupted in Hesperia, California, resulting in one burn victim and 50 acres of land scorched. The fire began in the afternoon amid record-breaking temperatures in the Southwest. The area was under an excessive heat watch starting June 2, with temperatures expected to reach 108 degrees. This extreme heat was simultaneous with a record-breaking Texas heat wave this early in the season in 74 years. On June 7, the temperatures in San Antonio and El Paso were expected to reach 104 degrees, while Dallas was expected to reach 95 degrees.
Firefighters wear fire-resistant (FR) clothes to protect themselves from burns. Nomex and Kevlar are two examples of materials used in FR clothing. The clothes are designed to be lightweight and comfortable so that firefighters can wear them for long periods of time. Firefighters also use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, goggles, and gloves.
How to Protect Yourselves
People living in areas that are prone to wildfires need to be extra careful. Wildfires can start suddenly and spread quickly, which can put people and property in danger. There are some things that people can do to protect themselves from wildfires.
Defensible Space Around the Home
One way to protect your home from wildfires is to create a defensible space. This is an area around your home where there must be little to no vegetation. Defensible space gives firefighters a place to stand and defend your home from the fire. It also allows them to see your home and assess the situation better.
The size of your defensible space will depend on the type of vegetation around your home and the resources you have. But as a general rule, you should create a defensible space that is at least 30 feet or 9 meters around your home
You should clear any dead vegetation and debris from your yard. This includes leaves, twigs, and branches. All of these can act as fuel for a fire. If you have a lot of trees on your property, you should trim the branches so that they are at least 10 feet or three meters away from your house. Remove anything flammable from your yards, such as propane tanks or woodpiles.
Another way to protect your home from wildfires is to use fire-resistant materials. These are materials that are less likely to catch fire or burn quickly. Some examples of fire-resistant materials are brick, stucco, metal, and glass. If you are building a new home or renovating your existing home, consider using these materials.
Emergency Plan
You should have a plan for what to do if a wildfire starts near your home. This includes knowing how to evacuate and where to go. You should have a designated meeting spot for your family so that everyone knows where to meet if you are separated.
Prepare several evacuation routes so you have options if one or more become impassable. Practice your evacuation route so that you can do it quickly and safely.
You should have an emergency kit always ready any time you need to evacuate. This kit should include food, water, clothes, and medications. You should also have copies of important documents such as your driver’s license and passport. Keep this kit in a safe place that is easily accessible.
If you have time before you evacuate, turn off all utilities such as gas, electricity, and water. This will help prevent fires from starting inside your home. Do not linger, though, if the fire is near as these will also make it more dangerous for you.
You must have a plan for your pets. Make sure you have a list of pet-friendly places to stay, such as hotels or shelters. You must also include a supply of food and water for them in your emergency kit.
Stay Prepared
Wildfires can be unpredictable and dangerous. You need to take steps to protect yourself and your property from them. Creating a defensible space, using fire-resistant materials, and having an emergency plan are all important things you can do. Make sure you also have an emergency kit ready at all times. If a wildfire starts near your home, know what to do and where to go.
Meta Title: Tips to Follow on How to Protect Yourselves from Wildfires
Meta Description: Do you live in an area vulnerable to wildfires? Read on to find tips on how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
