Ferocious, dry winds are kicking up this week bringing dangerous fire weather to parts of California. The risks of wildfire, as we saw from last year’s devastation, reach from urban communities to the most remote mountains when Santa Ana conditions take hold. Protecting your school facilities against these powerful forces of nature reduces losses and helps make your community more resilient.
Keep Fuel Away
Clearing brush and debris around your facilities is essential to protect your buildings and creates a defensible space for fire fighters to do their work if a fire comes near. Pay attention to nearby trees and how they can throw off flying embers in your direction. Dispose of lawn and gardening cuttings promptly. Roofs, gutters and eaves need to be cleared of anything flammable that may have accumulated.
Keep Sparks Out
While clearing these areas, inspect for any maintenance needed to prevent embers from entering the building such as repairing roofing materials and screening vents. Windows should be shut when closing the facility each day, and especially when an evacuation is ordered. Buildings with exteriors constructed to resist fires are completely vulnerable if the smallest sparks can get inside.
“Buildings constructed to resist fires are vulnerable if sparks can get inside.”
Keep in Touch
Make sure you coordinate with your local emergency services agencies about procedures for evacuation and how to stay informed with the most updated public information. Of course, many schools are pressed into service as shelters in times of disaster and it is critical to ensure your facilities are ready should they be needed. Review emergency plans before an emergency happens!
Keep Them Trained
Your teachers and staff will play an important role in student safety if a wildfire gets near your school. Prepare them for their responsibilities with training and written instructions for handling evacuation during the school day, ensuring how all children are accounted for and getting them safely back to their parents or guardians.
Keep on Caring
A wildfire going through your community will be a disturbing experience for everyone, and especially the children. Whether or not they have lost their homes, even a temporary displacement can be traumatizing. Counseling staff will need to prepare to help in coping with a variety of situations.
Advance preparation and team awareness of what to do if a wildfire strikes your area will help your school – and your community – bounce back more quickly.