Due to recent fires, we've had to re-evaluate our families preparedness. Because fires can spread so quickly, have a plan can make you feel less anxious when a natural disaster hits. Here's a great place to start your fire safety and prevention plan.
1. Create a Family Fire Escape Plan
One of the most important things families can do is create a fire escape plan. Just like in school, practice your escape routes, make sure everyone knows two ways out of each room. Designate a meeting spot outside the house where everyone should gather after evacuating. This will reduce confusion in the event of an emergency. Consider setting up a up a family password if you get seperated.
2. Install Smoke Detectors in Key Areas
Smoke detectors are life-saving devices, but only if they’re installed and maintained properly. Ensure that smoke alarms are in place in every bedroom, hallway, and common area of your home. Test alarms monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
3. Maintain Fire Extinguishers
Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location. Make sure you have one in the kitchen (the area most prone to fires) and near your garage or other high-risk areas. Learn how to use it correctly and check it regularly to ensure it’s in working condition.
4. Be Prepared for Wildfires
Los Angeles residents, especially those in wildfire-prone areas, should be prepared for the possibility of a wildfire. Keep a “go-bag” with essential items like food, water, flashlights, and important documents. Stay informed about wildfire alerts via emergency notifications and radio broadcasts, and have an evacuation route planned out.
5. Clear Brush and Debris Around Your Property
The dry climate in LA can make homes vulnerable to wildfires. To reduce fire risk, regularly clear dry brush, dead leaves, and other debris from your yard. Trim trees and shrubs to ensure that no vegetation is close to your home or power lines, as it can act as a pathway for wildfires.
6. Install Fire-Resistant Materials
For those living in wildfire-prone areas, consider investing in fire-resistant roofing and siding materials. These materials can help prevent a fire from spreading if embers land on your property. Additionally, use fire-resistant fencing and decking if you're in a high-risk zone. ***Pro tip we recently heard from a LAFD retired Capt. is making sure your roof/attic vents are covered with fire resistant materials. If embers find a way into your home, (often times from the top down) the house can burn unnecessarily from the inside out. Newer homes may already have these procautions in their building codes so double check if your home was build before 2019.
7. Never Leave Cooking Unattended
Kitchen fires are among the leading causes of home fires in the United States. Always stay in the kitchen when cooking, and never leave pots or pans unattended. If you must leave the room, turn off the stove and remove hot items. Keep combustibles like towels and oven mitts away from heat sources.
8. Properly Store Flammable Materials
Store flammable materials like gasoline, paint, and cleaning products away from heat sources and open flames. Keep them in secure, well-ventilated areas that are difficult for children to access. Never store these materials near your water heater, furnace, or stove. READ flammable warnings and take head when working with potentially flammable material. (Did you know some oil based wood stains are self combustible?)
9. Inspect Electrical Wiring and Appliances
Faulty electrical wiring and malfunctioning appliances can cause fires. Ensure that your home’s electrical system is up to code and have it inspected regularly by a licensed electrician. Replace damaged or frayed electrical cords, and avoid overloading power outlets.
10. Prepare for air quality issues
You don't need to be part of those sensitive or have health concerns to be affected by nearby fires. Consider purchasing a good quality air filter. Look at the square ft coverage, how expensive replacement filters are and how easy they are to install. Back up masks of course, I've found I prefer KN95 for day to day when you could smell things in the air.
11. Stay Informed About Local Fire Regulations
Los Angeles residents should be aware of local fire regulations, which may vary depending on the neighborhood and specific risks. This includes fire bans during high-risk periods, safe burning practices, and guidelines for building defensible space around homes. Stay up-to-date with information from the LA Fire Department and other local authorities. Follow your city's social media pages or often they have something you can sign up for in case of emergencies. Watch Duty I know has been helpful to many of us during this time.
All this being said, there are not enough thanks that can be given to our courageous fire fighters!!! THANK YOU!
