As many as 90 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by people, according to the U.S. Department of Interior. Some human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended, the burning of debris, downed power lines, negligently discarded cigarettes and intentional acts of arson. The remaining 10 percent are started by lightning or lava.
Monitor conditions and follow advice of local authorities. If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately and follow FEMA recommendations.
Wildfire safety tips
If you anticipate evacuation orders due to wildfire, there are several things you can do to prepare your home before you leave.
- Shut off gas supply to your home or propane tank(s). It’s standard practice by emergency response to shut off the gas supply to prevent feeding a fire. Doing so yourself reduces risks to your home or structure.
- Close all doors and windows. Closing doors and windows can prevent embers from entering the house or structure and igniting combustible materials, burning it down from the inside out.
- Turn off air conditioning. This will prevent outside smoke from entering the home and causing preventable damage.
- Leave a ladder out if you have one. Place a ladder near or against your home to allow firefighters quick access to your roof if needed.