It is important that you and your children learn and practice fire safety. This means using basic sense when dealing with matches, not leaving candles unattended, and not putting anything flammable close to a lit stove or fire. Around a campfire, no tossing in flammable substances as a clean-up technique.

It goes without saying that some things like fireworks just shouldn’t be thrown in a fire for fun, like fireworks. What seems funny one moment is a wildfire the next, and an entirely preventable disaster. Ensure that your kids understand the seriousness of the potential problem, and be sure they take part in planning your emergency response system.

Talk about the several escape routes in your house as well as those between your home and a designated safe place. Make sure they know the options available and what do to if they have to leave by foot, are at home alone or away in school. Talk to them about what they need to do if they must stay home during a wildfire. Explain the best approach to take if they are caught on foot or trapped in a vehicle. Don’t simply talk to them about it—demonstrate it. Use videos (many are available on various internet sites including YouTube).

On your part, make sure there is easy fire vehicle access to your home and property. You can build a firebreak and landscape with a wildfire in mind. Be alert and always, always, report hazardous conditions that could cause a wildfire.