Emergency preparedness for fires and wildfires (residential or livestock barn fires or wildfires) for families, farmers and ranchers to minimize losses should include the following considerations and preventions:
Controlled burn in the Kansas flinthills.
- Use fire resistant building materials on exterior such as: paint,
roofing and siding.
- Smoke detectors, fire alarms and sprinkler systems.
- Emergency lighting for evacuation.
- Accessible water and long enough hoses to reach buildings.
- Make sure that barn wiring is contained in conduit to prevent rodents from chewing wires and starting electrical fires.
- Avoid open burning during windy conditions and observe “burn bans”.
- Make sure to have adequate animal identification for all animals. Use rope or leather halters for livestock (and collars for pets). Nylon will melt and cause deep serious burns wounds.
- Have fire tools on hand such as shovel, hose, rakes, fire extinguishers and buckets.
- Monitor cords, plugs and appliances.
- Take care with heat lamps and portable heaters.
- Clean guttering, roof tops and around buildings at least 30 feet.
- Make sure that your trailers and trucks for evacuation are in good working condition and full of fuel. If you don’t have enough trailers, coordinate help that will be available ahead of time.
- Conduct fire drills with family and pets. Make sure that everyone knows what their responsibilities are and where to meet. Make sure that your “go kit” or ready to bug out bag is ready and easy to get to.
- Controlled burns can be useful in prevention of wildfires
and a classic type of emergency preparedness.
Make sure to have the basic preparedness steps down at all times, planning ahead is essential for fire and wildfire emergency preparedness.