It's wildfire season: Tips to protect your home and family

It's wildfire season: Tips to protect your home and family
Relentless heat is scorching the western United States as a persistent high-pressure heat dome brought record-breaking temperatures and severe drought conditions. The dry weather could fuel wildfires and put you and your home at risk.
The Farmers' Almanac predicts the heat will be in full force by July. Much of the nation will swelter with above- to high-above-average temperatures, which could break records. The stifling temperatures are coinciding with low humidity and wind gusts of up to 30 mph. That has triggered red flag warnings because the winds can spread fire quickly.
How to protect your property from wildfires
Last year, more than 2,400 homes were destroyed by wildfires, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. With warm, dry conditions expected to continue in the West, here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk that your home or neighborhood could be destroyed by a fire.
More: Canadian wildfire smoke is back: Tips to keep it out of your home
Are you ready for a natural disaster?
Depending on the type of disaster, you may need to shelter in place. Other threats may require you to evacuate. With wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes and human-caused disasters like chemical spills and explosions, no one is immune from these types of emergencies.
It's important to have a plan and keep essentials packed so you and your family can evacuate at a moment's notice. Here are some tips to get a go-bag ready if a disaster strikes.
More: Heat dome parked over the Pacific Northwest has it primed for record temps
Gathering your go-bag supplies
A go-bag is usually a lightweight backpack or bag you can grab on your way out the door. It should include personal items, toiletries, food and water. Here are some suggested items you may need in your bag:
The bag: Pick something lightweight and portable. Remember, you could be running while carrying the bag.
Pick something lightweight and portable. Remember, you could be running while carrying the bag. Electronics: Keep your phone handy in case you need to report a life-threatening emergency. Use your electronics only when necessary.
Keep your phone handy in case you need to report a life-threatening emergency. Use your electronics only when necessary. Food: You should have at least a day's worth of food and water, enough for each person. Nonperishable foods, such as granola or energy bars, are good because they are compact.
You should have at least a day's worth of food and water, enough for each person. Nonperishable foods, such as granola or energy bars, are good because they are compact. Important paperwork: Keep photocopies of important household paperwork such as proof of address, driver's license, insurance, adoption papers and naturalization certificates. Include copies of your Social Security card, medical records and credit card information. They should be stored in a waterproof bag.
More: What's a 'financial go bag?' Everything you need for your money when disaster strikes
Don't forget your pets
In an emergency, pets should never be left behind. They could get hurt, lost or worse. Preparing a pet emergency pack ahead of time will be helpful.
Make sure every pet has a carrier that is tagged with their name and contact details. Stock up on food and water for a minimum of two weeks, as well as poop bags for dogs and cat litter.
Make sure to have copies of pets' medical records, which include vaccination status for rabies and other diseases. It's a good idea to practice an evacuation and include your pets so everyone knows what to do.
Learn more by visiting disasterassistance.gov
CONTRIBUTING Christopher Cann

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