California faces a very active fire season: how to prepare

Last year's wildfire season was disastrous for California, and this year it could be even worse. Why is this possible, said the publication Weather.

Photo: Shutterstock

By this time in 2020, forest fires have burned 1 acres (726 ha). This year, during the same period, almost 700 acres (almost 8 thousand hectares) were burned down.

And today's drought in the state does not offer any hope of easing the wildfires during the season. Nearly 90% of the state is in drought, and this season will almost certainly last longer than average.

In 2020, forest fires killed more than 30 people and burned more than 4 million acres (1,6 million hectares).

Officials have already warned of the dangers of wildfires this year. They ask the Californians to draw up an evacuation plan and prepare "emergency cases" now. Because no one knows exactly when the disaster will come.

What should be in the “disturbing briefcase”

Experts recommend stocking up on essentials enough to survive for three days. After a major disaster, the services we take for granted (water, electricity, and thus food cooling and air conditioning at home) may not be available for days or weeks.

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Store the “emergency suitcase” in an easily accessible place, if possible, pack things in a waterproof container, bulky items can be put in a large plastic waste basket with a lid and wheels.

Things essential:

• Water (at the rate of one gallon (3,8 liters) per person per day);
• Food - ready to eat or requiring a minimum amount of water to prepare;
• Manual can opener and other items necessary for cooking;
• First aid kit and instructions;
• Plates, appliances and other accessories for eating food (it is desirable that they be unbreakable);
• Flashlight with additional batteries;
• Fire extinguisher;
• Water and food for your pet;
• Pet carry bag.

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Other useful things:

• Copies of important documents and phone numbers
• Warm clothes and a raincoat for every family member
• Durable shoes
• Heavy Duty Gloves
• Water purifier
• Personal hygiene items: toothbrush and paste, toilet paper, feminine supplies, hand sanitizer and soap
• Plastic wrap, duct tape and utility knife
• Tools: hammer, nails, adjustable wrench and bungee cords
• Blanket or sleeping bag
• Large heavy plastic bags, plastic waste and sanitary bucket
• Mobile phone charger (for wall socket and car)
• Pack these items in a backpack or other easily portable container in case you need to evacuate quickly
• Battery operated radio, batteries
• Whistle
• Respirator
• Pocket knife
• Stock of money in small denominations
• Sturdy boots, a change of clothes and a warm hat
• Photos of family members and pets for identification purposes
• List of family members' allergies to any drug (especially antibiotics) or food
• Copy of health insurance certificates and IDs
• Spare keys for your home and vehicle
• Any items necessary for people with special needs, children, the elderly, if any in your family

Do not forget to agree on a plan of action and methods of communication in case of a catastrophe with relatives and friends.

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