As we enter the camping season, we’re also entering another time of year: wildfire season. Technically, there isn’t a wildfire season in terms of exact dates or months, but after several weeks of hot, dry weather, we can see some of the year’s worst conflagrations, particularly here in the western half of the United States.
Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to put your RV in storage, but you do need to take some precautions, both to keep yourself safe, as well as others. That’s why KA RV has provided some tips for preparing for wildfires. Check them out and let us know if you have any additional questions by stopping by our location in Desert Hot Springs, CA.
Doing Your Research
Before you hit the road, check out the conditions in the area you want to visit. Start with the nearest wildfire. Remember that fire can spread faster than you think, so avoid taking any chances. Odds are, you can call the campground you intend to visit and ask if it’s still safe to stay there. And check up on this information frequently. Wildfires can quickly cause conditions to change.
You’ll also want to know the overall risk of a fire. Even if there are no blazes in the area, you’ll want to check out the wildfire risk for a certain area and adjust accordingly. This includes knowing about any fire bans.
Preventing Fires
While there are some wildfires that occur due to natural forces, like a lightning strike, about 88% are caused by human activity. Sometimes it’s an unavoidable accident, but many times it’s carelessness. One mistake can lead to the loss of thousands of acres and numerous fatalities. Don’t be part of the problem.
We’ve already mentioned following all bans, but even if you’re allowed to have a campfire, make sure you’re smart about it. Always supervise the flames, and have your fire in a pit or inside a ring to contain it. Never start a campfire on a windy day and have methods ready for quick extinguishing, including a shovel for burial, several gallons of water, and a fire extinguisher.
Other common wildfire starters include discarded cigarettes and vehicle malfunction. Fireworks, power tools, and firearms have also started their fair share of blazes. Even a little spark can start a big problem. For all electrical and mechanical equipment, make sure they’re serviced and won’t malfunction. For everything else, just use common sense. Don’t bring potential firestarters into a high-risk area.
Evacuation
While you’re camping, check up on wildfire conditions regularly. Just because there isn’t a blaze nearby when you start your trip, doesn’t mean one can’t form. Have your action plan ready to go, so if you need to leave at a moment’s notice, you can do so calmly. Make sure your plan factors in the campground’s disaster plan as well. Know exactly what needs to be unhooked and the supplies that need to be loaded back onto your RV. Keep in mind, there are some things that might be easier to leave behind, like firewood.
Know all your escape routes, both out of the campground and away from the area. If possible, choose a campsite that provides you with multiple exits. This will help you get out safely and quickly. If you’re asked to evacuate, do so immediately. Don’t wait for traffic to die down. Just get out. Also, make sure everyone knows the evacuation route and establish a rendezvous point. This way, if your camping party is split up, you don’t have to wait for them to come back to the campground to leave. You can just meet them at the designated rendezvous point and still move away from the fire.
Air Quality
All the same resources you use to track the fires can also tell you about air quality. Knowing how smoky it is outside can be particularly helpful for those with respiratory concerns. Even healthy individuals have a limit, and eventually, air quality can get so bad that it’s uncomfortable to be outside for extended periods of time. If you see poor air quality reported in your area, you might want to consider adjusting any outdoor plans you might have made.
With the right kind of prep, you can still enjoy the last few months of camping season and stay safe. If you still need an RV to get you there, stop by KA RV and let one of our experienced staff show you what we have available right now. We proudly serve Desert Hot Springs, CA, and the surrounding areas!
