ARE YOU READY?
The old saying ‘to be forewarned is forearmed’ is especially true when it comes to being prepared and ready for the moment wildfire or disaster strikes. Where do you go? What do you take? These are all questions you need the answers to and having a 5-minute plan will keep you and your loved ones safe in an emergency. Taking time to plan ahead for the worst can help minimize the impact of a disaster and can ensure you and your family are safe in the event of a sudden and catastrophic event.
California is no stranger to the destruction of wildfires and disasters and in recent years, with the almost year-round wildfires and unprecedented storms this past winter, Californians have been on the receiving end of some of the most catastrophic disasters in our state’s history.
Keep your family safe by being prepared and ready for when disaster hits with some helpful tips from the California Fire Foundation’s Firefighters on Your Side:
5 MINUTE PLAN
Keep your family safe by being prepared and ready for when a wildfire or disaster strike.
Having a well-thought-out plan communicated to your entire family ahead of time ensures everyone is prepared and ready for an emergency. A 5-minute plan is a great way for your household to know what to do and do it quickly.
Mark evacuation routes on a map – knowing which route you will take in an emergency can save you vital minutes. Having alternative exit routes identified ensures you can get out safely should roads be impassable due to disaster.
Plan where to go if you can’t come home – ensure you have a safe place to go to if you have to leave your home for a period of time.
Explain the plan to young children - it is especially important to explain to younger members of the family what to do in an emergency so they, too can be ready and alleviate some of the fear.
Practice leaving the house in 5 minutes - when disaster strikes, you need to get out quickly. Practicing leaving the house prior to a real-life emergency will help you in the event of a real emergency.
Put together an emergency supply kit or GO-BAG – when you need to evacuate, you don’t want to waste precious time locating flashlights, phone chargers, and other essentials. Have an emergency supply kit packed and ready. A full list of suggested supplies can be found here.
A 5-minute plan spelled out and shared with your family well in advance of a disaster is a great strategy for success should disaster strike. Check back soon for more helpful tips from Firefighters On Your Side.