Wildfires have been increasingly prevalent across Louisiana, with one of the worst engulfing 30,000 acres of land. The primary factors contributing to these blazes include lack of rain and rising temperatures, though arson has also been reported. Regardless of the origin, it’s essential to take measures to protect yourself and your loved ones should any of these fires approach residential areas. In this article, we’ll share some important wildfire safety tips to keep in mind for both the general public and individuals with disabilities.
Get Informed
The first step to take is to get informed. By this, we mean keeping up with the fire’s location, trajectory, and other pertinent information about the latest fire-related events. One of the best resources for staying updated on the Louisiana wildfires is the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.
It’s an interactive map of the United States that shows fire-related information. If you navigate to the state of Louisiana and click on a fire icon or any of the square markers, you’ll see more information about that specific fire.
It’s also essential to tune into local media outlets for updates on active fires. Being aware of the status of any fire-related situation could significantly improve your ability to make timely decisions, enhancing your safety.
Know Your Risk
When it comes to wildfires, the fire isn’t the only risk. According to the Louisiana Department of Health, declining air quality and smoke are two other health risks people should be aware of. Those with heart and lung issues are at a higher risk of adverse health outcomes than others. Here are a few other at-risk groups:
- Children
- Older people who have chronic health conditions
- People who smoke
In addition to these groups, people with mobility issues, learning difficulties, and other conditions may be at an increased risk of harm in a fire-related situation. They may have trouble evacuating without help or preparation. So, it’s even more important for those with disabilities to prepare for such an emergency.
Take Safety Precautions
In a fire-related disaster, your first instinct may be to panic, but deploying well-thought-out and planned safety precautions is much better.
Follow any evacuation orders and get to a safer area in case of a fire threat. And be sure to survey your surroundings; avoid exiting your home during an air quality advisory or when there’s a lot of smoke outside.
While indoors, use air filters or purifiers to reduce harmful particle levels. If you are in a building with multiple units, ensure you know where the exits are. If possible, talk to the building manager to ensure the exits are accessible.
If you’re in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 911. While on the phone, disclose any special accommodations you may need. If you need to evacuate but it’s not urgent, call 211 for questions or to find an accessible local shelter or cooling center that can meet your needs.
It’s also important to create an emergency preparedness plan.
We trust that the wildfire safety tips outlined in this article empower you to make informed decisions this wildfire season.
