The National Interagency Fire Center reports that 2015 set a new record for the number of acres burned in the United States.

Here is everything you need to know about wildfire preparation!

Personal Preparation
  • Create an emergency bag of personal items that you will need if you are asked to leave your home.
  • Leave your home when asked to do so.
  • Make and frequently practice a family evacuation plan that includes meeting locations, a communication plan and pet accommodations.
  • Clean your roof, gutters and deck of dead leaves and pine needles often.
  • Use building and yard materials that won’t burn easily.
  • Keep an area up to 200 feet around your home lean, clean and green.
Community Preparation
  • Follow evacuation instructions from your local emergency officials.
  • Practice two ways out of your neighborhood; you will be more prepared if roads are blocked.
  • Hold community meetings and work with neighbors to prepare the neighborhood for wildfires.
  • Make sure driveways and house numbers are clearly marked and can be seen from the road.
  • Meet with your local fire department. Find out how department personnel can help you prepare for wildfires.