Is West Jordan vulnerable to a wildfire disaster? Thankfully, we sit well insulated from the wildland-urban interface. Our primary fire risk comes from the large, open grasslands, which is not as significant a threat as the dangers Los Angeles has faced this year.

But fires can start anywhere, from your own car engine, to candles, your neighbor’s house, or business accidents. Are you ready for your own fire emergency? We want to help you be ready for whatever fire emergency may come your way.

First things first – If your house is actively on fire, GET OUT. Then call 911.

If there is an active threat in your area and you need to evacuate, you can follow these steps to support yourself and your loved ones.

A car kit can make evacuating fast and easy. (insert car grab and go list)

If there’s a fire outside your home, and you only have a few minutes, here are the most important things to grab first:

• Wallet/Purse
• Car, House and RV keys
• Cell phone (don’t forget a charger!)
• Medications and medical devices (CPAP, cane, walker)
• Glasses
• External hard drive and/or emergency folders with important documents
• Shoes and coat/jacket
• 72-hour kit with food and toiletries
• Pets and their own 72-hour kit

If you have a few more minutes, get these things next:

• Photo containers/books
• Changes of clothes
• Bottled water
• Sleeping bag and pads
• First-Aid Kit

If you have a half hour until you need to be out of the house, here are the next most important supplies to grab next.

• Journals
• Cooler with snacks
• Battery powered radio
• Blankets
• Porta-potty
• Flashlights
• Tent

Bonus Question: If there was a fire in your home, is your emergency food storage safe to eat?

Discard any food exposed to fire, as it may be contaminated by heat, smoke, or chemicals used to fight the fire. Canned or jarred food may seem fine, but extreme heat can cause spoilage or rupture the containers. Refrigerators and freezers are not airtight – the food can still be affected  by fumes.

Chemicals from fire-fighting materials can contaminate food and cookware. Food exposed to chemicals, including fruits, vegetables, and food in permeable containers, should be discarded. Cookware can be decontaminated by washing with soap and hot water, then soaking for 15 minutes in a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water.