Northwest Faces Increased Wildfire Risk in 2010

May 12, 2010

El Nino weather patterns and a relatively mild winter left Idaho, eastern Washington and south central Oregon drier than normal and vulnerable to wildfire, accoridng to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

In addition to urging extreme caution with campfires, fireworks, trash fires, grills and other heat sources, FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Dennis Hunsinger said, “Now is the time to create defensible perimeters by clearing flammable debris away from homes and structures. Of course, fire escapes and evacuation plans are a must, and should include current phone numbers for emergency service providers. By all means, make sure property entrances are clearly posted, with adequate emergency vehicle turnaround space.”

FEMA recommends that residents take specific actions long before an evacuation is necessary. It is also smart to keep important personal documents quickly available, and to prepare an evacuation kit.

Topics Trends Catastrophe Natural Disasters Wildfire

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