The devastating wildfires in Spokane naturally spark questions about what actions we’re taking with partners to better prepare King County communities for increasing wildfire risks – and what actions you can take to better prepare your home and neighborhood.
Our latest deliverable is the new Wildfire Ready Toolkit developed by King County climate, forestry, and emergency experts, customized for specific conditions in Western Washington. It contributes to our broader strategy to reduce wildfire risks throughout King County where 15 percent of the population – about 375,000 people – live in the wildland-urban interface.
The 39-page toolkit includes checklists that help you:
- Prepare your home: How to harden your home to decrease risk
- Prepare your household: How to create an evacuation plan and build an emergency supply kit
- Prepare to leave: What actions to take when an evacuation is likely
How you can help prevent wildfires
Most wildfires are caused by human activity. According to the Western Fire Chiefs Association, common sources include:
- Burning debris
- Unattended or improperly extinguished campfires
- Discarded cigarettes
- Arson
- Sparks from equipment, including mowers, dragging chains, downed electrical equipment, and vehicle exhaust
Actions you can take today
- Sign up for ALERT King County
- Download the King Couty Wildfire Ready Toolkit
- Check out Ready, Set, Go! to learn about evacuation levels
Contact
Doug Williams, Department of Natural Resources and Parks, 206-477-4543