Wildfires seriously threaten homes, businesses, and other buildings, especially in dry parts of the country. If you live or work in a wildfire-prone area, it is crucial you take the proper steps to plan for emergencies and evacuations. Keep reading to learn some tips for creating a wildfire evacuation plan so you and your building’s occupants will know what to do in case of an emergency.
What To Include in an Evacuation Plan
Every building requires evacuation routes to comply with safety laws in case of emergencies, such as fires. Wildfires pose an extra risk because a building’s occupants must evacuate outdoors, where the fire originates. Always choose a location in an open area that is free of vegetation while drafting your evacuation plan. Your evacuation plan should include several routes that lead to emergency exits and your designated meeting location.
Be Prepared for Wildfires
If you reside or work in an area that is prone to wildfires, there are some ways you can prepare for these emergencies. For example, did contractors use exterior intumescent paint or other fire-resistant materials when constructing your building? Check with your building manager to ensure your buildings’ wildfire preparedness. Fire-resistant paints and building materials aid evacuation plans because they help delay the spread of flames with fire-dampening techniques. It is also important to prepare evacuation materials for your building’s occupants, such as respirators, bottled water, battery chargers, and more.
Practice Evacuation Through Training
One of the most important tips for creating a wildfire evacuation plan is testing it and training everyone involved. Be sure to schedule regular fire drills for all occupants of your building. Regular training and evacuation drills help occupants familiarize themselves with safe routes and what to do in case of a real emergency. You may even want to consider doing drills such as these more frequently in areas that have higher risks of wildfires.
Thorough planning and preparation can reduce risks during an emergency. Follow these tips and drills closely and inspect your building for fire-safety materials and routes. Only professional painters and contractors can properly apply exterior intumescent paints to protect against wildfires, so never try to DIY or skip this safety step. If you are a builder or painter looking for fire-resistant materials, browse our website to learn more about intumescent paints and how to acquire them for your next job.
