Your family’s safety means everything to you, which is why being prepared for the unexpected should be a priority. If you live in an area that is prone to wildfires, the first step to peace of mind is creating a wildfire evacuation plan. Much like a fire escape plan, having a set list of steps and practiced routine creates a proactive approach to the threat of wildfires.
Navigating an evacuation can be a stressful time. You’ll want to have everything you need in place in case you have little warning to drive to safety. Take a look at the various stages of evacuation so you’ll be familiar with what needs to be done when one’s announced for your neighborhood.
This is a fire warning that’s issued through the Emergency Alert System in the US. It’s typically used to inform the public of major and uncontrolled fires that threaten populated regions and may block major roadways and arteries.
Wildfires are either in your area or they’re approaching quickly, and your job is to be ready for an evacuation if ordered. Here’s part of what you’ll need to do when your area is threatened by a wildfire:
This condition is declared when a significant risk of fire to your area is possible. Residents are ordered to leave the area. It’s best to leave voluntarily, upon issue of the notice. Relocating to a Stage 1 area or into an officially designated region immediately is mandated.
This is the final and most severe statement of imminent fire in your area. A Stage 3 Evacuation simply means “GO!” Leave immediately, as emergency services and first responders may not be able to assist you.
Time is of the essence when an emergency evacuation announced. And if you wait until the last minute, you may not be able to exit with important documents, priceless heirlooms and other key items before you’ll have to evacuate.
One great way to be ready for wildfires is by investing a few hours each week in preparation for just such an event. You’ll have the time to create an accurate home inventory for insurance purposes. Take a look at these tips to customize a plan for your home and family — you’ll be more prepared to head out with a moment’s notice.
It’s important that you listen to local authorities if a wildfire is spotted and take the precautions to heart when crafting your wildfire evacuation plan. Consider these ideas to help ease communication during a wildfire event:
Once an evacuation order is given, the authorities will usually identify a route that steers you away from fires and towards a safe zone. Here are other ways you can manage evacuating from a fire:
A lot of last-minute haste can be avoided with a pre-made emergency “go bag” full of your essentials. Check out www.ready.gov/kit (Opens in a new tab) for a handy list of supplies.
If your area is under a Stage 1 wildfire notice, take the time to prepare your home, if it’s safe to do so:
If you are warned of the likelihood of a wildfire early enough, get to work by removing burnable debris from the outside of the house, roof and gutters. Try to clear combustible materials from a 5-foot perimeter around your home.
A proactive wildfire emergency response plan can give you peace of mind that you’re prepared for the unexpected. And that’s really what good home insurance is all about. With the right coverage, you may be provided additional living expenses after filing a claim and meeting your deductible. It’s key coverage if you need to relocate while contractors are rebuilding your home.
Your agent will help you customize the amount of protection you’ll need for personal property. Because natural disasters come in many forms, you’ll also be able to tune your policy with added flood insurance and additional coverages that fit the exact needs of your home.
Talking to your American Family Insurance agent (Opens in a new tab) to make sure you have the right homeowners protection can boost that sense of security. Get started on taking these smart steps today.