As we progress into the summer months, the risk of fire activity is projected to escalate. In anticipation of a potential surge in wildfires, Lowe's is joining forces with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This collaboration is instrumental in ensuring that at-risk areas, including our employees and the general public, are well-informed about the risks and necessary precautions related to wildfires.
Megan Fitzgerald-McGowan, an NFPA wildfire specialist, answers the questions you need to know to prepare for the 2024 wildfire season.
Q: What are the major risks when it comes to wildfire damage that people should be aware of?
There are many misconceptions about wildfire, the common one being that a wildfire is a big wall of flames that destroys everything in its path. In reality, we most often see structures destroyed by wildfire embers – small burning pieces of debris that are blown away from the fire. These embers can travel up to a mile and when they land, they can pile up, skunk around and smolder, eventually igniting the combustibles they land on.
Small ignitions on roofs, decks, porches and other areas are typically the main causes of homes being lost to wildfire.
Q: What can homeowners do to help prepare and mitigate the risks of wildfire damage?
Arrange for a wildfire safety walkthrough of your home. This is typically conducted by your fire department or the local office of a state forestry or natural resource agency, but other offices such as a conservation district or fire safe council can help with this as well.
If you don't have an opportunity to meet with someone, NFPA offers a short online training that can help you create your own plan.
Much of the work that needs to be done around the home involves maintenance, such as:
- Keeping your roof clear of pine needles, leaves, branches and other debris is important, repair any holes or damaged areas.
- Keeping embers out of vents, using 1/8 metal mesh screen or commercial vents that people can use to replace their old ones.
- Maintain a combustible-free area around the base of the home out to 5 feet. This means removing plants, bark mulch, or pine straw and keeping the grass away.
- Clean up debris that settles in the area or anything that accumulates.
Q: What items are essential in a wildfire preparedness kit?
When living in a region that experiences wildfire, it is critical to prepare ahead of time. As a result, having a Go bag or go kit is essential to safety. Start with an evacuation plan and go kit, as life safety is most important, then start tackling your home and property. Start with items like water, canned ready-to-eat food, flashlights and batteries, a first aid kit, and facemasks to prepare for unhealthy air quality. Find a full list on what a supply kit should include here.
Some steps can be taken ahead of time. For example, important papers – marriage certificates, house paperwork, financial information, pictures – can be stored digitally. It can be helpful to ensure easy access to things like passports and prescriptions so you can grab them on your way out.
Q: How is NFPA teaming up with Lowe's to help people prepare and react to wildfires?
Lowe's has demonstrated a strong commitment to helping educate the public about ways to reduce their homes' risk to wildfires. We truly appreciate their efforts, as we know the difference those messages can make in protecting homes from the potential destruction of wildfires.
One last tip from Megan and the team at NFPA: start doing the work today. While all the recommendations need to be addressed, the reality is it might be difficult to do all at once. Taking just one hour a day to chip away at things that need to be done around the home and yard adds up quickly, and can make a significant difference.
Click here for more information on wildfire preparedness from the NFPA.