Be Wildfire Ready

Be prepared in case of a wildfire

I live downtown. Wildfire preparedness isn't always top of mind for us city dwellers. It's for those that live in the mountains and rural parts of Colorado. They are the ones that need to prepare for wildfires, right? Not exactly. As dry are conditions are in the Grand Valley, no place is safe.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA has some tips that everyone can follow that can help prevent wildfires and preparedness tips that help in case disaster strikes.

1-This may seem radical but why not sign up for emergency notifications? The alerts come straight to your phone. For those of us living in Mesa County, sign up HERE.

2-Make sure all family members know what to do and can communicate effectively in case of an emergency.

3-Keep working fire extinguishers in your home and how to use them.

4-Practice fire prevention. Spend some time online and learn how you and your family can prevent a wildfire. The best expert is Smokey Bear himself. Check out the US Forest Service website HERE.

5-Remember the 5-Ps in case of an evacuation: People, Prescriptions, Papers, Personal Needs, and Priceless Items.

A little time spent with prevention and preparedness will go a long way in case of an emergency. Don't be caught off guard no matter where you live, downtown or in the country. A wildfire can start anywhere will destroy everything in its path.

Credit: KKCO11News