September is National Preparedness Month in the U.S., and it is especially important in communities in high fire-risk areas.
Agencies like FEMA, the U.S. Fire Administration, and local fire departments encourage people to have emergency supplies ready, like water, food, medications, and important documents.
They also advise people to make escape plans if they haven't already, including knowing evacuation routes and setting meeting places.
"Fire escape plan, also very important," said Reno Fire Chief Dave Cochran. "You should have a plan, literally a map of your home, and your neighborhood, and where you would go, if your home caught on fire."
Key tips that will help save your life are crucial in fire emergencies.
- Assembling a go-bag (medications, important documents, water, food, clothing, pet supplies).
- Creating defensible space around homes (clearing brush, trimming trees, removing debris).
- Making an evacuation plan (know multiple routes, have a meeting point).
- Signing up for local alerts (like CodeRED or county emergency notifications).
- Practicing fire drills with family and neighbors.
Reno Fire recommends knowing exact routes in and out of your neighborhood, checking if there are street closures and staying up to date on changes in evacuations plans. This will help you better navigate next steps when preparing to escape the fire.
