Tips: Be Prepared For Wildfire Season

  • Jul 10, 2009

It’s that time of year again when outdoor temperatures rise and the threat of fires are at their highest, posing a risk to you and your family’s safety and security. However, recognizing the hazards and knowing proper fire safety procedures can assist in keeping the disastrous results of a fire at bay. Universal Protection Service gives you the following tips to help ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.

  • Clean up the debris: remove vegetation around all structures and trim trees so branches are six feet from the ground and 10 feet from your chimney. Remove branches hanging over your roof and clear any dead leaves or needles from gutters.
  • Regularly inspect utility closets, electrical panels, and other areas where fires commonly start. Store chemicals such as paint, aerosol cans and oil in proper containers and away from the sides of your home or entryways.
  • Never attempt to trim trees near power lines yourself -- call your utility company to do the job for you.
  • Ensure your power tools have spark arresters, and do yard work early in the morning to avoid the sun’s heat and accidental ignition. As a preventative measure, consider landscaping with fire-resistant plants.
  • Improperly maintained equipment is useless: test smoke detectors often and change their batteries frequently. Also inspect fire extinguishers and make sure they’re conveniently placed.
  • Important documents, such as birth certificates, insurance policies and bonds, should always be stored in fireproof safes.
  • Use caution around open flames and heat sources: keep your candles in contained visible areas and flammable objects, such as potholders or dishtowels, away from cooking equipment.
  • If you see a damaged or frayed cord replace it immediately; regularly put your hand near electrical outlets to check for excess heat and always unplug appliances when not in use.
  • Create an evacuation plan: teach your children the “stop, drop, and roll” rule and hold family drills to practice escape routes everyone will take in the event of a fire.
  • Design a family communication strategy: make sure everyone in the family knows where to meet and who to call in the event you become separated from one another.

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