21
Apr

You need evacuation vehicles ready to go. These should have all the basic supplies you’ll need and be ready to run as soon as you need them. After all, you don’t know when you’ll need to evacuate your home.

Make Sure the Fluid Levels Are Good

During fire season, you should make sure the tanks in all your evacuation vehicles are half filled at least. This will get you out of town fast enough and then you can worry about topping up the gas after.
It’s also important to check on other fluid levels. Check that the windshield wiper fluid is full. This is the most important but overlooked of all the fluids. A lot of ash can come down hard, and you need to be able to wash it away as you get out of town.

Of course, your oil levels need to be checked regularly. And you’ll want to make sure you have jump leads and extra fluids in the car for when you need them.

The Basic Supplies in Evacuation Vehicles

Every vehicle needs to have their own supplies. You should have a first-aid kit, spare medications, a flashlight, snacks and water bottles, and a fire extinguisher. Make sure you have road flares and a basic tool kit for the vehicles. If you have disabled family members, have supplies for them.

They kits need to be in every vehicle you’ll use. You don’t know if you need to split up. You don’t want to rely on items in one vehicle only to have to leave it behind or to end up stuck with the other going off.

Cell phone charges in the car are a must. While they’re not as good as charging your phone in the home, they will help to keep batteries running when you need them. Make sure you have multiple chargers for all the phones in the family. Just keep in mind that cell phones don’t always work in an emergency.

Don’t Forget the Blankets and Bolt Cutters

It’s worth having a bug-out bag in each of the vehicles. This will ensure you have spare clothes and items that you need.

Something that is overlooked is blankets. Many people will add sleeping bags, but they can end up catching fire quickly. Wool blankets are fire resistant and can block heat, which can make it safer when you’re evacuating because of a fire. Look out for blankets that are at least 80% wool. They will cost between $50 and $100 in a lot of cases, but they are worth it. Lighter wool blankets are good for warmer climates and are a little cheaper.

Finally, think about trying to get through areas during a fire. You may have to take roads that you’re not used to, and you’ll need tools to get through any fences or gates. Bolt cutters and chain saws could be just what you need. Plan for the worst and you’ll be ready for evacuation.