Pueblo, Colo….Many homes in the West may be threatened by wildfire this year and many families may be forced to evacuate. The following guidelines may help if a wildfire threatens your home and evacuation appears likely:

• Pick a place to meet your family outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. Plan alternative escape routes by vehicle and on foot
• Plan how your family will stay in contact if separated by a disaster. Select an out-of-state friend or relative as a “check-in contact” for everyone to call
• Listen to a battery-operated radio for reports and evacuation information.
• Back your vehicle into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of escape. Close all the windows and doors. Leave the key in the ignition.
• Pack your vehicle with a disaster supply kit. For a list of items to include, contact your local American Red Cross office or visit their website a www.redcross.org .
• Shut off gas or propane. Leave electricity on for water pumps. Do not shut off the water
• Before leaving, close all doors and windows.

For additional fire prevention information, check www.firewise.org.