Guest Column
Gov. Schweitzer: Protect Yourself and Your Community In Fire Season
By Brian Schweitzer, Guest Writer, 7-21-06
By Gov. Brian Schweitzer
As the mercury soars above 90 degrees in every Montana community, we are reminded of the threat we face from wildfires. What began as an above average rainfall year quickly turned into a very dry July. The grasses and timber that thrived in our early rains are quickly drying out and becoming a plentiful source of fuel for potential fires.
Many fires are currently burning in eastern Montana and we have seen increased fire activity in western Montana. With no rainfall on the way and hot, dry weather dominating the forecast, we see no relief in sight from Mother Nature. Now is the time to prepare for the worst while we continue to pray for the best.
In times of potential disaster, it is important for everyone to take responsibility for the safety of ourselves, our neighbors, our livestock and property and our community. That means being prepared.
There are many things you can do today to better prepare yourself, your property and your family for a wildfire emergency.
Develop a family evacuation plan including a meeting location and an alternate point of contact in case you are separated during evacuation.
Make sure you can communicate if your phone lines are down. Cell phones or CB radios are good options.
Keep areas immediately around your structures free of flammable materials, including tall brush and dense timber.
Place important papers and non-replaceable items in a fire-proof container or in one location so that they can be quickly retrieved in the event of an evacuation.
Arrange a safe location for pets and livestock in advance as pets are NOT allowed in evacuation shelters.
If you are in a rural area, make sure you have a water tank with a pump that does not run on electricity.
Communicate with neighbors as to your whereabouts should you leave for an extended period of time. Leave notes and messages when necessary.
Be prepared to assist neighbors, especially the elderly.
Remember, if you spot fire or smoke in your area, contact 911 immediately and stay tuned to local radio and television news broadcasts to keep informed of local fire activity. If you are evacuated, tie a white cloth to the front of your door as you leave, this will let rescuers know that you have safely evacuated.
Local volunteer fire departments, county disaster assistance and local law enforcement will likely be the first to respond – but being prepared is your best and first line of defense. As we recreate with our friends and family this summer it is important to be overly cautious with fire. Thank you, Montana, for your help this fire season.
For more information on ways to protect yourself, your family and your neighbors visit www.dnrc.mt.gov
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