Fire season is here!

7/11/2018 (Permalink)

With these hot temperatures warming up the Eastern Idaho region, you will need to be very careful with all of your outdoor activities. If it becomes very hot, windy, and dry it is probably a good idea to limit your outdoor activities that might possibly result in a wildfire. Burning debris and target shooting are a couple activities that need to be rethought if the weather is too hot.

Because of the lack of snow pack this year there is a higher risk of fires. Snowpack keeps the ground and soil moist by covering it longer into spring and summer which in turn influences the onset of fire season as well as the widespread and seriousness of wildfires.

As many as 90% of wild fires in the United States are caused by burning of debris, campfires being left unattended, throwing out cigarettes, and simply people intentionally starting fires, aka arson.

Because of this, wildfires threaten thousands of homes a year. www.readyforwildfire.org suggests these steps.

1. Review your evacuation plan checklist
2. Ensure that your emergency supply kit is in your vehicle
3. Cover-up to protect against heat and flying embers. Wear long pants, long sleeve shirts, heavy shoes and boots, and goggles or glasses. 100% cotton is always preferred
4. Locate your pets and take them with you to safety

Always remember that if you are evacuated and then able to return home to be alert and look over a few things.

1. Always be alert for downed power lines and other hazards,
2. Check propane tanks, regulators, and lines before turning on your gas
3. Check your residence carefully for any hidden embers or smoldering fires

If you do unfortunately happen to have fire damage on your home make sure to call a professional like SERVPRO to help with your disaster.