Wildfire Preparedness

Wildfires are an unrelenting force of nature. As a major natural disaster, wildfires present a serious threat to lives, homes and businesses, while directly causing property damage, increased costs of fire suppression management, and destruction of natural resources. The severity of a wildfire's effects are directly related to the intensity and extent of the disaster.

If you live or work near a wildfire-prone area, prepare yourself, property, business and people with our wildfire preparedness guide and resources. If you are prepared before a wildfire approaches, you and your loved ones will be ready to leave at a moment's notice.

Wildfire Planning and Claims Resources

Wildfire Prevention Tips

A wildfire, also known as a bushfire, can start quickly and within minutes, destroy everything that comes in its path. Wildfires ignite with a formula known as the "the fire triangle," which involves a combination of fuel, oxygen and a heat source. Winds provide oxygen to open flames while transporting them at efficient, accelerated speeds.

Although considered a natural disaster, almost 60 percent of fires in national parks are started by people, and another study concluded that 85 percent of wildfires are started by people, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While most ignition sources can be prevented like unattended campfires, engine sparks and burning debris, there are easy ways to prevent forest fires and wildfires:

• Call 911 or the local fire department if you see an unmanned fire.
• Never leave your own fire unattended. Put out the fire completely using water, stir the ashes and make sure the site is cold.
• Use precaution when using fueling lanterns, stoves or heaters outdoors.
• Never throw cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle — put them out completely.
• Learn about fire prevention methods and more ways to reduce the risks of fires.
• Sign up for your community's warning systems. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio provide emergency alerts.

While precautionary measures help, it is not always enough. Our wildfire preparedness guide provides tips on how you can protect your business, home or property before a wildfire.

Essential Resources for Wildfire Preparedness

Bookmark these recommended informational sources to help prepare and recover from a wildfire. These are national resources and are not associated with Gallagher.