If a wildfire began to spread throughout your region, what would you do, and what would you pack for evacuation?
Regardless of your area’s risks, assemble a fire safety kit ahead of time as part of your overall escape plan. Check off the following:
What to Pack in Your Fire Safety Kit
Expect your fire safety kit to account for everyone in your household for at least three days, if not up to a week. Keep your kit light enough that you can carry it on your back or over your shoulder to pack into the trunk of your car.
For a general guideline, start with key, potentially irreplaceable documents for identification, ownership and insurance: Social Security cards, birth certificates, the deed to your house, passports, your marriage license, health insurance and auto insurance cards, and bond documents. Along with paper versions, have these items scanned and stored online in a secure, password-protected location for backup.
Then, build up reserves of essential survival items:
- A first aid kit accommodating your whole family and any pets.
- At least a month’s supply of medications and a backup pair of eyeglasses.
- Water, packed in jugs, to last at least three days.
- Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare, nutrient-rich food plus a can opener.
- Clothing and boots that will last you for two days, preferably with full coverage and in bright, visible colors.
- A battery-powered flashlight or headlamp.
- A battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather and emergency updates.
- Backup batteries and chargers for all devices you intend to bring.
- A whistle or another audible alarm.
- An N95 or dust mask to reduce smoke and particulate exposure.
- A local map with your evacuation routes and potential alternatives pre-outlined.
- Basic personal protective equipment, including work gloves and full-coverage goggles.
- A backup credit card or traveler’s checks.
- Personal hygiene and sanitation supplies.
- Leashes for your pets.
- Sheets and duct tape, if you will be traveling to an encampment.
If you receive an advanced warning and have more time to pack, consider additionally bringing along a computer, heirlooms, family photos and something to entertain younger family members.
What Else Should You Pack?
With your essentials stashed away:
- Check the composition of your clothing: Garments made of wool, cotton or another natural fiber are less flammable than synthetic or blended fabrics. Heavier fabrics, like denim, duck or thicker wool, also offer greater protection than thinner materials. Additionally, any boots or shoes you bring should have treads, if not lugged outsoles, to reduce your risk of a slip and fall injury. Along with clothing and footwear, grab a hat and bandana for full head-to-toe coverage against heat and smoke.
- Avoid searching for your fire safety kit: Store your fully packed kit in an accessible, dry, quick-grab location, or place it in your vehicle ahead of time if you anticipate an evacuation.
- Periodically assess your fire safety kit: Moisture can alter the effectiveness of your medications or invite mold growth. As well, even non-perishable foods expire and should be replaced every couple of years. Check your first aid kit to see if wipes and bandages have dried out and need to be replaced with newer supplies.
Are you building a fire safety kit or replacing your existing supplies? Have Fire Safety USA help you out. Shop our selection today for flashlights and headlamps, first aid kits, gloves and more essentials.