You are relaxing at home when suddenly the police announce an emergency evacuation is ordered. A fire, flood, or event is happening, and your life is about to change. Everything you own is about to burn, blow away, or flood.
Hopefully you have prepared to protect your home. Fuel for fires has been removed for a 100 foot or larger perimeter. Barriers to block or deflect water have been put into place.
No one wants to experience this emergency. Humans are collectors of “STUFF”, and the threat of losing your stuff is scary. Staff can be replaced but not lives. Here are some thoughts about what to do if the worst event comes your way.
GO BAGS This means emergency packs for adults, kids, and pets. They need to include essentials for survival. Water, food, clothing, etc.
UNDERGROUND PROTECTED VAULTS You can build safe storage areas in basements and underground. Gun safes are essentially several layers of drywall in a metal box. You can make secure vaults using similar construction.
PLANS Planning ahead is essential. Imagine an event happening and consider what you want to save and what to do. Where in the community is there going to be an emergency base.
TRANSPORTATION If a potential evacuation is possible, stage your vehicles to escape. Know the route to take and have a full tank of gas. Park the ride facing the direction you will use. Preload and be ready to go.
Prepare your property for the emergency. If wildfire is coming;
Move grills and outdoor furniture away from the home.
No firewood or fuel should be close to buildings.
Turn off lawn sprinklers so that your water pressure will stay high.
Position ladders close and available. Firefighters may use these materials.
Leave exterior lights on so firefighters can see the buildings.
Turn off gas, pilot lights, and propane.
Push furniture and flammables into the middle of rooms. Take down curtains and flammable drapes, hangings. Cover windows with metal shutters of materials. Turn off AC. Close and lock windows.
Know when to leave
Follow the 6 P’s
People and pets come first. Everything else can be replaced. Have an escape plan for any livestock.
Papers Important documents, deeds, and personal info.
Prescriptions Have the relevant meds ready to go. First aid meds are also important.
Photos Many old photos are irreplaceable. Have them in a central place for quick removal.
Phones and Puters Communication will be important. Digital info is also moveable. Have a portable radio and hand communication ready to go with extra batteries and charging cords.
Plastic and money Credit cards and cash will be needed when you get to safety.
Emergency situations happen without warning. Planning ahead is smart and necessary. Don’t get caught without having a plan and a way to survive.
Stay safe, and be prepared!
Montana Grant
