It's Wild Fire Season

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Are You Prepared?

As temperatures rise and fire authorities brace for perhaps the worst wildfire season to date, it is important for you to prepare your property for the potential damage caused by excess smoke and soot.  Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities.  Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do if you need to quickly evacuate.  Consider making plans with friends or family to shelter with them where you may be safer and more comfortable.

   Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA)- which requires no-sign up.

What should you do?

Do not attempt to remove the smoke and soot by yourself, unless there is a professional present. Hiring a professional is necessary to thoroughly clean your facility of smoke, soot, odors, and any other pollutants. You need knowledgeable environmental experts familiar with various types of combustion by-products, who can clearly define the assessment and testing strategy appropriate for your situation.

Strengthen your Home

• Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate or make repairs.
• Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach any area of your property.
• Create a fire resistant zone that is free of leaves, debris or flammable materials for at least 30 feet from your home.
• Designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. Set up a portable air cleaner to keep indoor pollution levels low when smoky conditions exist.
• You may have to evacuate quickly due to a wildfire. Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household, pets, and identify where you will go.
• Follow the instructions from local authorities. They will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.

Because fire damage restoration can take so many forms and stages after an emergency, you need a team of professionals capable of helping you nearly every step of the way. Our SERVPRO of East Riverside team has the experience and extensive training to make fire disasters "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (951)222-2224