Wildfire Preparedness in Missoula

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Wildfires are unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you have to be unprepared!

Montana, particularly areas like Missoula County and the Bitterroot Valley, faces significant wildfire risk, with a high percentage of properties vulnerable to damage. To safeguard your Missoula home against wildfire threats, proactive steps are crucial, especially as wildfire season typically peaks in late summer and early fall.

Start by preparing well in advance. Register for your community’s emergency alert system to receive timely notifications about approaching wildfires and evacuation advisories. Develop and rehearse at least two evacuation routes from your residence, ensuring plans include arrangements for pets and livestock. Assemble an emergency go-bag that accommodates the needs of all household members, including pets.

During the preparation phase, prioritize home safety measures. opt for fire-resistant materials when building or renovating your home to enhance its resilience against wildfires. Maintain a readily accessible hose connected to a water source that can cover all areas of your property. Additionally, clear combustible materials, such as leaves and debris, from within at least a 30-foot radius around your home to create a defensible space.

In the unfortunate event that your home sustains fire or smoke damage despite precautions, SERVPRO of Missoula stands ready to assist with comprehensive services including board-up, debris removal, emergency power installation, temporary lighting, and structural repairs. Contact us promptly at 406-327-9500 for swift and effective restoration, making your home "Like it never even happened." Prepare now to safeguard your home and loved ones against the unpredictable nature of wildfires in the Missoula area.