Evacuation Prep Part 2

The list was too long to fit in one posting, so here's the second part:


WHAT TO DO BEFORE LEAVING

___ Close evacuation car windows but DO NOT LOCK CAR and leave keys in ignition
___ Close fire resistant window coverings, heavy drapes, and Venetian blinds
___ Close garage door but leave it unlocked (disconnect automatic garage door opener)
___ Close or cover outside vents and shutters
___ Cose sliding glass doors into the center of the house (DON'T lock them)
___ Determine where separated members will meet
___ Disconnect propane tank
___ Don't tie up telephone lines (notify friends and relatives by e-mail where to contact you)
___ Establish an evacuation plan, travel route, probable destination
___ Fill bathtubs, sinks, and containers with water
___ Fill evacuation vehicle gas tank
___ Follow any official agency's evacuation instructions
___ If instructed, tie large white cloth to front door knob
___ Leave one light on in each general area so firefighters can see your house in dark and smoke
___ Lock doors and windows
___ Make safety equipment obvious for firefighters (spigots, ladders, chain saws, hoses, etc.)
___ Move overstuffed furniture away from windows
___ Park evacuation vehicle in the garage heading toward street and travel route
___ Place a ladder against the roof of the house on the side opposite the approaching fire
___ Plug air vents and openings that are close to the ground
___ Prepare an "information note" to leave on the door detailing who you are and where you have gone
___ In your "information note" tell where flammables are (such as lawnmower gas, ammo, chemicals - move them all into one place)
___ Release any livestock in the area
___ Remove combustible items from around the outside of the house
___ Remove lace, nylon, or light material drapes and curtains
___ Soak burlap sacks, small rugs, or large rags in containers
___ Turn off appliances, thermostats, fireplaces, stoves
___ Turn off natural gas at meter
___ Turn on exterior lights

WHAT TO DO NOW TO PREPARE

___ Clear debris from roof and gutters
___ Clear driveway to at least 20 feet wide with 15 feet vertical clearance (for emergency vehicles)
___ Clear vegetation from within 3 feet of hydrants
___ Clear weeds and cut grass within 10 feet of structures, propane tanks, utility boxes
___ Develop outdoor water supply with hoses to reach entire house, nozzle, and pump
___ Document an annotated list of all belongings
___ Have fire tools, ladder, and fire extinguishers available
___ Install chimney screen or spark arrestor
___ Install enclosed sides on stilt foundations and decks
___ Install only non-combustible roof material
___ Install screens on foundation and eave vents
___ Install shutters, fire curtains, or heavy drapes on windows
___ Install smoke detectors and test quarterly
___ Keep evacuation vehicle gas tank full
___ Make a video of all belongings, talking about each
___ Post load limits on access bridges
___ Post name/address signs clearly visible from street or road
___ Practice family fire drill and evacuation plans
___ Practice STOP, DROP, and ROLL (should clothes catch on fire)
___ Prepare a list of valuables to take with you (store together, if possible)
___ Remove branches that overhang withing 15 feet of roof and chimney
___ Remove trash and debris accumulations
___ Remove trees growing through porch, deck, or roof
___ Stack firewood uphill or on a contour at least 30 feet away from house
___ Take still pictures of all belongings as a backup
___ Thin and prune your trees and brush