Create and practice fire evacuation plans

The Cliff Creek fire in Wyoming stands as a reminder of how quick a wildfire can spread and endanger our homes. With much of our area still under a red flag warning, it’s important to make sure you’re ready to evacuate if needed.

Kim Stouse, the community education specialist for the Pocatello Fire Department, said the area’s high temperatures and low humidity create perfect conditions for a fire to spark.

She recommends having a plan ready-to-go is the most important thing to do.

It should include the following:

Two escape routes planned in case one of them gets blocked off by the fire. Your important possessions and documents should bequickly accessible so you can get them and leave in a limited timeframe. An established communication plan in case you and your family is separated when a fire comes.

Stouse said you should practice the plan as many times as you can.

“Make sure not only you have it but that everybody in your family knows what the plan is,” she said.

In case you have kids home alone when a fire spreads, make sure they know to recognize help when it comes through the area. Stouse said your kids should know to address and obey the orders they’re given.

“We don’t want people to wait for their family or put themselves in harms way to get their kids,” she said. “We want everybody to get out.”

If you have pets, be sure to create an emergency kit for them as well. The kit should include food, water, a first aid kit and other supplies. Also arrange for your pets’ room and board in case the place you evacuate to can’t handle pets.

If you have livestock, don’t leave them tied up and open your gates. You can also turn on your sprinklers.

Click here for other fire evacuation and safety information, including what to include in an emergency kit and other guidelines.