Wildfire Safety

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

What to do after a fire

Those beautiful falling leaves, crisp, dry days, and blustery winds, and campfires with smores make fall spectacular in the Carolinas, but they can also lead to wildfires.  Do you know what to do if there is a wildfire near you or your property?

Most wildfires are caused either by human actions or lightning. You can easily prevent these disasters from happening if you:

• Fully extinguish your campfires and be sure you always practice proper firepit safety.
• Clear leaves and debris from your gutters, eaves, porches, and decks.
• Remove dead vegetation from around your home and property.
• Cover exterior attic vents with 1/8 inch or less mesh
• Inspect and repair the roof- missing shingles can allow embers to catch
• Keep your grass cut short
• Safely burn your debris- keep the fire small, keep water available and close, and don't burn on windy days or when there is an advisory.
• Carefully put out smoking materials properly.

Prepare BEFORE-

• Know where to go if you are evacuated- don't forget your pets!
• Make an emergency plan and share it with your loved ones.
• Have multiple routes in case one is blocked but check and make sure they are open when evacuating. Using technology is a great way to ensure your intended route is open during an emergency. 
• If you are building a new home or business, consider using flame-resistant materials.
• Put together and update your emergency kit. 
• Teach children proper fire safety so they know what to do in an emergency.
• Ensure anyone with disabilities is included in your fire safety plan.
• Have the right fire extinguisher, keep it maintained, and know when to use it. 
• Have proper fire safety equipment in your home, like smoke detectors. 

There is a wildfire...now what?

• Follow your emergency plan.
• Immediately evacuate when instructed.
• Take your emergency ready kit with you
• Follow the instructions from local officials 
• Return when conditions are safe and you have been given the all-clear from the officials.  

If smoke is impacting your area:

• Keep your doors and windows closed.
• Keep your air conditioner intakes closed.
• Keep your air filters clean.
• Evacuate if ordered, or it is uncomfortable to remain indoors.

If the fire has impacted your home:

• Call the Charlotte Fire Department and inform them of the fire. 
• Call your local fire restoration experts at (704) 840-6112.
• Know the cost of fire restoration.
• Understand how we clean your belongings. 

If you have fire, water, or smoke damage, please call SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County at 704-840-6112.  We will be there to help you make it "Like it never even happened."