National Wildfire Awareness Month
Wildfires can ignite with little warning, spreading quickly and leaving behind scorched earth and shattered lives. National Wildfire Awareness Month shines a spotlight on this danger, urging everyone to stay alert and informed. As temperatures rise and landscapes dry out, the risk of fires grows.
This month-long focus encourages communities to take proactive steps, like clearing brush and understanding evacuation routes, to protect homes and lives. It’s a collective effort to stay one step ahead of potential disasters.​
The importance of this awareness extends beyond fire-prone areas. Even regions not typically affected are experiencing unexpected blazes due to changing climate patterns.
By emphasizing preparedness and prevention, National Wildfire Awareness Month empowers individuals to take action, reducing the likelihood of fires and minimizing their impact.
It’s a call to be vigilant, informed, and ready to act, ensuring safety for all communities.
How to Celebrate National Wildfire Awareness Month
National Wildfire Awareness Month is a time to focus on safety and prevention. Here are some engaging ways to participate and make a difference.
Clear Your Space
Start by removing dry leaves, pine needles, and other flammable materials from your yard. Trim tree branches that hang close to your home.
Keep firewood and propane tanks at least 30 feet away from your house. These steps reduce the fuel available for potential fires. ​
Plan Your Escape
Develop an emergency plan with your family. Identify multiple evacuation routes and a meeting place outside the danger zone.
Prepare a “go bag” with essentials like water, food, medications, and important documents. Practice the plan regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local emergency alerts to receive real-time information about wildfires in your area. Keep a battery-powered radio handy in case of power outages.
Staying informed helps you act quickly if a fire threatens your community. ​
Educate Others
Share wildfire safety tips with friends and neighbors. Use social media to spread awareness about fire prevention.
Organize community meetings or workshops to discuss local risks and preparedness strategies. Education empowers everyone to take action. ​
Support Firefighters
Show appreciation for local firefighters by sending thank-you notes or donating supplies. Volunteer for community clean-up events to help reduce fire hazards.
Your support boosts morale and strengthens community resilience. ​
History of National Wildfire Awareness Month
National Wildfire Awareness Month began as a focused effort to promote wildfire safety and preparedness across the United States.
In 2003, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) launched the Ready Campaign, which includes this initiative to encourage individuals and communities to prepare for wildfires.
The campaign aims to educate the public on the risks of wildfires and the importance of taking proactive measures to protect lives and property. ​
Over time, various states and organizations have joined the effort, recognizing the increasing threat of wildfires due to factors like climate change and urban development.
The collaboration between federal agencies, state governments, and local communities has strengthened the reach and impact of National Wildfire Awareness Month. By promoting awareness and preparedness, the initiative plays a crucial role in reducing the devastating effects of wildfires across the nation.
See what else is happening…
There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!
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School Principals’ Day
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