With extreme fire weather expected this week, the American Red Cross Kansas and Oklahoma Region urges residents to prepare now.
Prepare Your Household
As climate-driven disasters increase, take steps to protect your family today:
- Build an emergency kit with bottled water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, medications, important documents, phone chargers, and emergency contacts.
- Make an evacuation plan in case you get separated from family. Coordinate with schools, workplaces, and community emergency plans. Don’t forget pets.
- Stay informed by learning how local officials will share emergency alerts and evacuation orders.
Prevent Wildfires
Most wildfires are caused by people. Take precautions:
- Avoid starting fires on windy days.
- Don’t park hot vehicles or machinery on dry grass.
- Prevent fuel spills on vegetation.
- Ensure chainsaws and off-road equipment have spark arrestors.
- Dispose of cigarettes and matches safely.
- Keep lighters and matches away from children.
- Trim tree branches 6-10 feet above shrubs.
- Keep grass under 4 inches.
- Clear dead plants, leaves, and dry debris that could fuel fires.
