The summertime in California is well-known for its wildfires. Wildfires are extremely uncontrollable and can happen at any time. According to the Guardian, 2020 was the worst wildfire season, killing 31 people and burning over 4m acres. Crazy right? If you got through last year’s season, then you know how vital it is to be prepared. Here is a checklist of 4 things you need to do to be sure you’re safe during these times.

1. Prepare your home
2. Create your own emergency kit
3. Create an action plan
4. Stay aware

Prepare your home

Your home can be affected directly by the wildfire or a home close by, flying debris, burning structures, etc. Although there's no way to perfectly prepare your house for a wildfire, it doesn't hurt to try. Here are some components of the house you’ll need to make fire-resistant:

• Windows
• Vents
• Windows
• Walls 
• Roof

Click here for CalFire’s ways on how to make these fire-resistant changes.

Create Your Own Emergency Kit

Emergency kits are essential and should be made for every person in your home. These kits are in case of an unlikely event that you have to evacuate your home. Here are some things that need to be included:

• Necessary medication
• Important documents
• Changes of clothing
• First-aid kit
• At least a 4-day supply of food and water for everyone (including pets)

Create an Action Plan

If you have to evacuate your home, where are you going to go? Who are you going to call? This is what action plans are for, here are examples of what needs to be in an action plan:

• Numerous escape routes 

• Having fire extinguishers on hand

• Setting a designated emergency meeting spot

• Aware of where all gas and electricity shut off controls are and how to use them

Click here for more action plan examples from Cal Fire.

Stay Aware

There are many different alerts for California to keep you up to speed with everything that’s going on. Most are sent to your phone without you having to sign up, but you should also sign up for Cal Fire's alerts by clicking here.

The droughts in California are reoccurring, and these wildfires are too unpredictable. We’re a Callective, and we want you to be safe. So, try these tips out to be prepared for any wildfire that comes our way.