Immediate Actions to Take
When a wildfire threatens your Spokane home, acting quickly and decisively is critical. Here’s what you need to do:
Evacuate Early
If authorities advise or order evacuation, leave immediately. Do not wait until the last minute, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Follow Evacuation Routes: Use the designated evacuation routes and avoid shortcuts, which may be unsafe.
- Check on Neighbors: Ensure that elderly or disabled neighbors have a way to evacuate.
Stay Informed
Keep yourself updated on the wildfire situation through reliable sources.
- Local News: Tune into local news stations for real-time updates.
- Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts from Spokane County Emergency Management.
Protect Your Home
If time allows, take these steps to protect your home:
- Close Windows and Doors: Close all windows, doors, and vents to prevent embers from entering.
- Move Combustible Items: Move flammable items like patio furniture and firewood away from your home.
- Turn Off Gas: Shut off natural gas or propane to reduce fire hazards.
Emergency Communication
Maintaining communication during a wildfire emergency is essential.
- Family Communication Plan: Use your pre-established plan to stay in touch with family members.
- Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and utility companies.
Shelter Options
If you cannot evacuate in time, seek shelter in a safe place.
- Community Shelters: Locate the nearest community shelter designated for wildfire emergencies.
- Safe Room: Use a room with no windows and exterior walls if you must shelter in place.
Emergency Evacuation Kit
Ensure you have an emergency kit ready to go. This kit should be prepared well in advance, ideally at the beginning of wildfire season. Here's what to include:
- Water: At least one gallon per person per day for several days.
- Food: Non-perishable food items for several days.
- Medications: Prescription medications and medical supplies.
- Important Documents: Copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account records saved in a waterproof container.
- Clothing: Change of clothes and sturdy shoes.
- First Aid Kit: Basic first aid supplies.
- Flashlight: With extra batteries.
- Multi-Tool: For various needs.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Toiletries, sanitary supplies.
- Pet Supplies: If applicable, include food, water, and medications for pets.
- Cash: Small bills in case ATMs are not functioning.
Additional Resources
For more tips on responding to a wildfire emergency, visit:
- Wildfires and Homeowner Insurance by the Office of the Insurance Commissioner, Washington State.
- Wildfires by Ready.gov.
Local Emergency Resources
- Spokane County Emergency Management: Offers real-time updates and evacuation information.
- American Red Cross Spokane Chapter: Provides shelter and emergency assistance.
Cross-Link to Related Articles
- How to Prepare Your Spokane Home for Wildfire Season
- Steps to Take After a Wildfire: Filing Insurance Claims
