Marines


Wildfire

 


Wildfires can start unexpectedly and spread quickly, often due to lightning strikes or accidents. You may not be aware of a wildfire until you are in danger, so it is important to be prepared for a wildfire, especially if you live in a dry, wooded area. Wildfires can be incredibly destructive and dangerous. They pose a threat not only to your home and community, but also to your family if you are not prepared.

 

 

Prep Steps

  • Verify and update official contact information in the Marine Corps Enterprise Mass Notification System (eMNS), and register all cell phones, home phone, email addresses, etc. in eMNS. 

  • Be aware of your area’s risk for wildfires.

  • Make an evacuation plan as a family.

  • Make an emergency communication plan in case family members are separated.

  • Build an emergency kit.

 


 

Practice Fire Safety

  • Install smoke detectors on every level of your home.

  • Never leaving a fire (including a cigarette) unattended.

  • Avoid open burning.

  • Keep a ladder that will reach the roof.

  • Make sure you have a fire extinguisher as well as a hose that can reach all areas of the home.

 


 

Create a Home Safety Zone

To create a 30-50 foot safety zone around your home:

  • Clear the area of all flammable vegetation, including dry leaves and branches. 

  • Remove vines from the side of your home.

  • Regularly dispose of trash at approved sites.

  • Store gasoline and oily rags in proper safety cans.

  • Regularly clean roof and gutters of debris.

  • Inspect chimneys at least twice a year.

 


 

What to do where there is a wildfire

  • Stay tuned to radio, TV, and eMNS alerts for information and instructions.

  • If you spot a wildfire, call 9-1-1 immediately. Don’t assume that someone has already reported it.

  • If directed to evacuate, do so immediately:

  • Turn off gas.

  • Fill any large containers with water, including pools, garbage cans, and tubs.

  • Close all the doors in your house to prevent a draft.

  • If time permits, clear the house and the area around it of any flammable items, including fire­wood and cloth curtains.

  • Take your emergency kit.

  • Wear protective clothing.

  • Once you are in a safe place, follow your command’s protocols for personnel accountability and contact your command’s designated Point of Contact to check-in and report your location and situation.

 


 

What to do after a wildfire

  • Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles, and downed wires.

  • Wear leather gloves and heavy soled shoes to protect hands and feet.

  • Check the roof and attic for smoldering embers or fires.

  • Put out any fires with the water stored in containers.

  • Wet debris down to minimize breathing dust particles.

  • Do NOT use water that you think may be contaminated.

  • Maintain a fire watch for several hours, periodically checking for fires or smoke throughout and around the house.

  • If you evacuated, do not return home until Fire Marshals say it is safe to do so.

 


Set your own course through any hazard: stay informed, make a plan, build a kit. Live Ready Marine Corps.