Comprehensive Wildfire Disaster Preparedness Checklist for a Household of 4

I. Emergency Kit Items

1. Water (at least 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days) - 12 gallons

2. Non-perishable food (energy bars, canned goods, dried fruits) - 3-day supply

3. First aid kit:

Bandages (10)

Gauze pads (5)

Antiseptic wipes (10)

Pain relievers (20)

Prescription medications (3-day supply)

4. Flashlights and extra batteries (2)

5. Battery-powered radio and/or NOAA Weather Radio (1)

6. Whistle to signal for help (1)

7. Dust mask or bandana (4)

8. Moist towelettes and garbage bags (20)

9. Multipurpose tool or pocket knife (1)

10. Warm clothing and blankets (1 per person)

II. Evacuation Plan

1. Identify at least two evacuation routes from your home and neighborhood.

2. Designate a meeting point outside the home (e.g., a nearby park or landmark).

3. Identify a secondary meeting point outside the neighborhood (e.g., a friend's home).

4. Choose an out-of-town contact person for family members to call if separated.

5. Ensure all family members know the evacuation plan and meeting points.

6. Practice the evacuation plan with all family members, including pets.

III. Communication Plan

1. Create a contact list with important phone numbers, including:

Emergency services (911, fire department, etc.)

Family members' phone numbers

Out-of-town contact person

2. Program important phone numbers into your phone and make sure all family members have access to them.

3. Consider purchasing a two-way radio or walkie-talkie for family members to stay in touch during an emergency.

4. Designate a meeting point for family members to reunite if separated during an evacuation.

IV. Home Preparation

1. Create a defensible space around your home by clearing flammable materials (dead leaves, branches, etc.).

2. Trim trees and shrubs to reduce fuel for potential wildfires.

3. Use fire-resistant materials for roof and siding.

4. Cover vents and eaves with metal mesh to prevent ember entry.

5. Store flammable liquids (gasoline, paint thinner, etc.) in a well-ventilated area outside the home.

6. Keep your home's gutters clean and clear of debris.

V. Important Documents

1. Create a document storage container (e.g., fireproof safe, waterproof box).

2. Store the following documents in the container:

Identification (driver's licenses, passports, etc.)

Insurance papers (home, auto, health, etc.)

Emergency contact information

Copies of prescriptions and medical records

Financial documents (bank statements, etc.)

VI. Pet Care

1. Create a pet emergency kit with:

Food and water for at least 3 days

Bowls and a water bottle

Leash and collar

ID tags and vaccination records

Carrier or crate

2. Identify pet-friendly evacuation routes and shelters.

3. Practice evacuating your pet with the rest of the family.

VII. Special Needs

1. Identify special needs requirements for elderly or disabled family members (e.g., oxygen tank, wheelchair, etc.).

2. Create a plan for assisting these family members during an evacuation.

3. Consider purchasing a portable wheelchair or walker for emergency situations.

4. Store essential medical equipment and supplies in an easily accessible location.

By following this comprehensive checklist, your household of four will be better prepared to face a wildfire disaster and ensure a safe evacuation.