Emergency Preparation and Evacuation Guidelines
The James Canyon Fire District is vulnerable to a number of natural and environmental threats. Possible dangers that may result in the need for emergency action and possible evacuation include wildland fires. Planning and preparation prior to an event plus teamwork are key elements to successful management of an emergency.
Should you receive word to evacuate, it is imperative that you do as instructed. Do not delay. Stay calm and gather your family. Follow the directions as they were given to you. Place a white sheet or cloth on your home, visible from the main access. Take your pre-assembled emergency kit, family and pets, lock your home and depart by the most direct, safe route as advised.
Have a family and/or neighbor-to-neighbor plan for emergency actions. In that plan, include:
- Emergency contact information for extended family/friends.
- Designated short and long term times/places to meet depending on evacuation requirements.
- Location of access to utilities.
- Familiarization with all routes to and from your residence.
- Periodic review and practice of your plan.
Prepare an emergency supply kit and include:
- A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day) and food that won’t spoil.
- One change of clothes, work gloves and rugged footwear per person.
- One blanket or sleeping bag per person.
- A first aid kit (including prescription medications)
- Emergency tools (radio, flashlight and extra batteries)
- Cash, credit cards, debit cards.
- Important documents (insurance policies, shot records, bank account information, inventory and pictures of household valuables, deeds, stocks, wills, important telephone numbers, birth/marriage certifications)
- Sanitation supplies
- Miscellaneous items might include extra eyeglasses, a map of the area, or any special items required for an infant, elderly or disabled member.
If times allows prior to evacuation, additional steps can be taken to protect your home which include:
- Close all windows, vents, doors, blinds and non-flammable window coverings.
- Remove lightweight curtains.
- Close fireplace screen and open damper.
- Move flammable furniture to the center of the home away from windows.
- Park your vehicle(s) facing the direction of escape.
- Dress in long-sleeve, natural fiber shirt and pants, sturdy shoes and a hat. Carry a handkerchief in your pocket for protection from smoke.
- Connect garden hose to outside faucets
- Wet areas within fifteen feet of house and flammable areas of home (roof, porches, decks)
- Place garden tools near faucet (shovel, rake, hoe)
- Place ladder to roof of house.
- Turn on the porch light and at least one light in each room.
- Right before leaving to evacuate, place a white sheet or cloth on your home that will be visible from the main access.
Prepare now by creating a dependable home:
- Stack firewood 100 feet away from the house and cover.
- Enclose openings such as porches and foundations.
- Keep vegetation mowed and debris cleared at least 30 feet around house.
- Trim ladder fuels and limbs hanging near or over structures.
- Replace or treat flammable roofing with fire retardant materials.
- Install spark arrestors on chimneys.
- Keep roof and gutters clear of debris.
- Keep a water hose near outdoor faucets.
- Keep access to and from house clear.
- If possible, provide an accessible outdoor water storage supply.
Also, check out these helpful links under Fire Preparedness.
http://www.jamescanyonvfd.org/home/helpful-links/