AAA: Steps To Prepare For Oklahoma Wildfires

As wildfires continue to sweep through parts of northwest Oklahoma, AAA is offering advice to help Oklahomans prepare.

“Understanding your risk and preparing ahead of time is the best defense against wildfires,” said Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokesperson.

STEPS TO TAKE:

• Clear away dry grass and brush at least 100 feet from your home to minimize the chances of fire spreading.
• Move firewood, grills and anything flammable at least 30 feet away from your house.
• Create a wildfire action plan for your family.
  • Include escape routes and places to meet up.
  • Program emergency phone numbers in your cell phone.
  • Share emergency contact info with people you can depend on outside of your area.
  • Create a plan to evacuate pets and animals. Include them in family emergency drills.
  • Decide ahead of time important items to take if evacuated, ONLY IF safety permits.
  • Have a “go bag” prepared with clothes, toiletries, and other necessities.
  • Take photos or video inside and outside your home to document your possessions and save them somewhere safe and accessible.
  • Review the plan regularly.
• Evacuating
  • Listen to news reports.
  • Follow the instructions of local fire officials, law enforcement and emergency workers
  • Make sure you have identification for all members of your family. Identification may be needed to get back into your neighborhood.
  • Leave with as much time to spare as you can.

For ways to help the Oklahomans affected by the recent wildfires, click here.