If you think wildfire preparedness is only for summer months, think again! The best time to prepare for an emergency is before the emergency. The following list is designed to be accomplished while snow is on the ground.

Tip 1: Take Inventory

If you experienced a total loss of your home during a wildfire, would you remember all of your possessions? Having an up-to-date home inventory will help you get your insurance claim settled faster. There is no better time to create an inventory than winter. Check in with your insurance provider to see how they recommend creating and uploading a full inventory of your belongings. 

Tip 2: Check on your insurance

Your home is your most important asset and it's vital that you protect it. Winter is a great time to check in on your insurance coverage. Call your agent or insurance company annually to discuss your policy limits and to make sure that your policy reflects the correct square footage and features in your home. 

Tip 3: Sign up for Emergency Alerts

Getting timely notifications about evacuations and other emergencies is critical in our area. PitkinAlert and ECAlert are Pitkin and Eagle County's emergency alert systems, enabling emergency management agencies and first responders to quickly and efficiently provide residents and visitors with information for a variety of situations. This winter, make sure that you are signed up for your county's alert system and if you already have an account, login to make sure that you are subscribed to receive these pertinent alerts.

For Pitkin County Alerts, visit: pitkinalert.org

For Eagle County Alerts, visit: ecemergency.org 

Tip 4: Familiarize yourself with your evacuation route

Do you have a plan in place in case of an emergency evacuation? Winter is a perfect time to create an evacuation plan that details an emergency meeting location, evacuation routes and means of communication for yourself and your family members and guests. 

Tip 5: Make a go-bag

This winter, prepare yourself for wildfire by creating a go-bag with plans for your 6 P's: 

1. People and pets
2. Important papers
3. Prescriptions, vitamins, and eye glasses
4. Photographs and memorabilia
5. Personal computers and external harddrives
6. Important plastic (emergency credit or debit cards)

Tip 6: Have a clear address marker

During an emergency, it's important that first responders know where to go when they're called to a property. By making sure your address number is visible, you will allow Emergency Responders to locate you quicker. This winter, ensure that yours is visible by removing excessive growth surrounding it and making sure that all of the numbers are still legible. If you don't have a clear address marker, order and install one that is reflective, has large numbers, and is placed in a visible location. 

Courtesy of our neighboring Eagle County Government Wildfire Mitigation Specialist