Wildfires can pose a significant threat to homes, businesses, and both human and animal lives, especially in areas prone to dry conditions and strong winds. For pet owners and pet care businesses in particular, it’s crucial to anticipate the possibility of fires and have a plan in place for safe evacuation in the event that a wildfire approaches. Here is a checklist to help guide you in preparing for potential wildfires:
- Know and practice your escape routes. It’s important to have at least two escape routes from your home or facility mapped out in advance. Familiarize yourself, your family, and your employees with these routes. Practice driving them under different conditions, such as at night or in heavy traffic, to build confidence and familiarity. If you manage a pet care business, make sure your staff knows the escape routes and understands their roles in assisting with evacuations.
- Prepare your vehicles. Ensure that all vehicles have at least half a tank of fuel at all times to avoid becoming stranded during an evacuation. Additionally, stock them with emergency supplies such as flashlights, a portable radio, and spare batteries.
- Decide on a safe meeting place. In the chaos of an evacuation, it’s possible for people to become separated. Establish a safe meeting location that all employees are aware of, such as a landmark or a safe zone away from the immediate danger area. Having a predetermined meeting spot will help ensure that everyone can be accounted for and can assist in the coordination of additional evacuation measures or transportation needs.
- Coordinate with friends or neighbors. Arrange in advance with neighbors or friends who can help transport pets, especially if you have multiple animals or large pets that require additional vehicles.
- Round up pets early. During an evacuation, pets can become frightened and may try to escape. Gather them as early as possible and place them in carriers or on leashes ready for transport. Keep these items in a secure, easily accessible place.
- Secure and shut down your property. If you need to evacuate, try to close all windows, interior doors, and remove curtains from windows before leaving. Turn off propane gas at the tank and unplug electrical devices to reduce fire risk.
- Make sure you have access to alerts. Staying informed is vital during an emergency. Sign up for local emergency alerts via text or email, and make sure that everyone in your household or business is also subscribed. Consider investing in a portable radio with fresh batteries as a backup. If you run a pet care business, ensure that your facility has a reliable communication plan that includes updated contact information for all staff and clients. Access to timely information will allow for quicker decision-making and evacuation if needed.
- Gather important documents and other items. Have a small, compact file box or digital backup ready with important documents such as insurance policies, legal documents, and medical records. For businesses, this might also include client records and employee information.
- Pack personal and pet necessities. Pack a suitcase with clothing, toiletries, medications, and basic camping supplies in the event that you need to stay outside temporarily. In addition, be sure to include pet essentials like food, water, bowls, litter boxes, and waste bags.
- Trim branches above and away from structures. Preventive landscaping can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading to your home or business. Trim any tree branches that hang over your roof, and remove dead or dry vegetation from around your property. This will create a defensible space clear of potential fire fuel, which can help slow down a wildfire and provide a safer environment for firefighters to operate. Encourage employees and pet owners to assist in these efforts as part of their regular maintenance routines.
- Remove flammable debris and refuse from the area surrounding your property. In addition to preventive landscaping, try to remove any other flammable debris within at least 30 feet of your home or business—100 feet if possible. This may include removing wood piles, outdoor furniture, and pet enclosures or play areas when the risk of wildfires is elevated.
- Communication and final steps. Draft an email to inform friends and family of your evacuation plans, and take a complete list of phone numbers with you, including neighbors and emergency contacts. Make sure all household keys, wallets, cell phones, and credit cards are ready to go.
While the prospect of wildfires can be terrifying, following these tips and having a comprehensive plan in place can help ensure the safety of your family, employees, and pets, while reducing the risk of damage to your property.
At IBPSA, we are committed to helping pet care services businesses create safe, healthy environments for both their staff members and the pets in their care. To learn more, consider enrolling in our Risk Management and Safety Facility Certification Program, or plan to attend our Emergency Preparedness Plan Workshop, taking place on Monday, September 23 in advance of the 2024 FLOW Business Conference in Tucson, Arizona! This workshop is open to the public—visit petcareconference.com to register!
