12stepfireprep

The defensible space around your home is done (for now), your Go Bags are packed and you practiced evacuation routes and getting in touch with everyone according to the emergency plan. But wait, there’s more! There is no magic wand and muttering “Evanesco” will not vanish the fuel load all around us. Joining or creating […]

In this installment of our series we’re taking a deeper dive into decisions made before, during and after an incident. You have a major part to play in an emergency and decisions you make beforehand can influence the outcome. Then, there are decisions made by agencies. Who makes these decisions and why? Let’s take a […]

Between wildfires and winter storms, having essentials packed and ready to go is a must. But, when was the last time you checked on the contents of the Go Bags? Expiration dates on food stuff, the winter sweaters packed for the storm – check them. Then, move on to the tools you use to maintain […]

As a parent you want to keep your kids safe from any harm and preparing for wildfire is part of protecting them. Talk to them about the family emergency plan and enlist their help if possible. Let’s face it, many kids know more about apps and texting than their parents… You are the best judge if your […]

If you are asked to evacuate during a fast-moving fire, how do you reassemble your family if some are at work, others at home or school? How do you stay in touch and know everyone’s OK? The short answer: By having a family emergency plan. The Family Emergency Plan is your personal “What If” and […]

In case of an evacuation, you’ll likely drive to an evacuation shelter or your predetermined evacuation location. Getting there safely is a primary goal. Driving through smoke or even flames on the roadside, the roar of a fire, coupled with the adrenaline rush of having to get to safety is not your everyday commute. Prepare […]

Living in the Wildland Urban Interface or Intermix (WUI) carries a distinct possibility of wildfire and evacuation for your community. Hopefully you’ll never hear two-tone sirens and the words “Evacuate. Go now.” Minimizing stress caused by having to leave your home starts with being prepared. Now is a great time to assemble or refresh your […]

During recent wildfires, 90% of homes and buildings were first ignited by embers, not the actual fire. Embers are carried on winds ahead of a fire, eventually causing a fire to “spot” ahead of itself. Spotting can occur several miles ahead of the main fire! Once these embers land on or near your home, it’ll […]

This week, we’ll tackle brush and sheds. Brush clearing, also know as the gift that keeps on giving, is on our weekly menu. Winter, even one as dry and warm as this one, is a great time to tackle the fuel reduction project. Fewer leaves and relatively softer soil make some of the work easier. […]

Access and egress from a home to the street generally starts in a driveway in the rural parts of Nevada County. If a fire broke out at the bottom of your driveway, could you drive out safely or would a flaming wall of vegetation quickly prevent you from leaving and spread towards your home? Mother […]

Use the dry weather to walk around your house and property, make a list of work to be done during winter and early spring. Below are questions to help you get started. Don’t worry if all the boxes on the outside checklists are checked and/or you have nothing checked on the indoors checklist. Now is […]

The winter storm has left damage throughout western Nevada County, adding to the urgency of getting ready for peak fire season. The precipitation outlook is rather bleak at the moment, but on a positive note it gives residents time to be outside and start the yearly preparations earlier. For the next 12 weeks, YubaNet will […]