Prepare Go bag; emergency binder
By Karen Herreros
We’re squarely in the middle of fire season – a time to be especially vigilant about anything that could spark fire, like using power equipment incorrectly and at the wrong time of day.
Now is not the time to use mechanical equipment late in the day, for instance, because one spark could start a fire.
It’s also time to make sure you and your family are prepared in case the worst (a wildfire) comes to pass. Assemble a Go bag for everyone in your family and make sure you have everything your pets need as well (food, water, bedding, leashes, medications, bowls, etc.) in case you need to evacuate.
Also consider keeping an emergency binder. When it comes to being prepared, one of the best things you can do is organize an emergency binder of your most important documents. Include important items you have in your wallet by copying both front and back of your driver’s license, insurance cards, credit cards, etc. In addition, include birth certificates, marriage license, immunization records, wills, trusts, passports and all other important accounts. Same for information like that on your pets.
Make a master list of all important phone numbers you would need, don’t rely on your cell phone for this information.
When creating your binder, find a system that works best for you. Consider grouping like documents together in clear plastic protectors and consider keeping it in a fireproof safe you can easily get to in case you need to grab it and go.
This can be a daunting task, but it is time well spent – and once organized, you’ll have the peace of mind that everything is in one spot and easy to grab and go.
To learn more about the Scripps Ranch Fire Safe Council, visit www.srfiresafe.org or email srfiresafecouncil@gmail.com.