Wildfire Safety Tips

It’s Wildfire Season – Are you prepared?

Wildfires are one of the biggest dangers that Californians face. With hot temperatures and dry vegetation, taking the right steps to prepare and protect your house from a wildfire can help to make sure that it’s still standing when the flames die down. Keep these wildfire safety tips in mind so you know what to do when a fire starts.

To help prevent a wildfire:

  • Never leave a fire unattended, no matter if it’s in your own backyard or during a camping trip. Completely extinguish any fires by dousing with water and mixing around the ashes before you leave.
  • Don’t throw matches, cigarettes, or other smoking materials from your moving vehicle or anywhere other than a trash can. Make sure that all matches and cigarettes are completely extinguished before you throw them away.

If you have to evacuate:

  • Once you are advised to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. If you have small children or a disability, you should evacuate even if it’s voluntary.
  • Always know your evacuation routes ahead of time so that you won’t have to scramble to find a way out of your neighborhood.
  • Wear protective clothing and footwear when evacuating to protect yourself from flying ashes and sparks.
  • Make sure that there are no combustible materials in your yard before you leave, including yard waste, firewood, fuel cans,
  • Prevent any drafts into your house by closing vents, windows, and doors.

Having the right homeowners insurance policy can help to ensure that your house and belongings are covered in case of a wildfire.  Contact the insurance professionals at Apollo Insurance Services at 800.426.1088, option 2 for all of your home insurance needs.