I have spent over 40 years in the fire service across Southern Arizona. During that time I have helped families and businesses in their most challenging moments. I have seen how being prepared can reduce the impact of emergencies and sometimes prevent them altogether. As we enter September, National Preparedness Month calls on every household to get ready for disasters big and small.
National Preparedness Month
Each September the Federal Emergency Management Agency and local fire districts promote awareness of natural and manmade hazards. This year the Golder Ranch Fire District urges every family to assemble a 72-hour emergency kit. A well-stocked kit can sustain you until help arrives or evacuation orders are lifted.
Build a 72-Hour Emergency Kit
Your kit should include essentials for three days of self-reliance:
- Water: One gallon per person per day and extra for pets
- Food: Nonperishable items such as canned goods, energy bars and dried fruit
- First aid supplies: Bandages, antiseptic, prescription medications and over-the-counter pain relievers
- Tools and lighting: Flashlight, extra batteries, multi-tool and manual can opener
- Communication: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, portable phone charger and extra charging cables
- Personal items: Copies of identification, cash, emergency contact list and local maps
- Hygiene items: Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, toilet paper and trash bags
- Comfort items: Blankets, change of clothing, sturdy shoes and pet supplies
Store your kit in a durable container or backpack and keep it in an accessible location. Review and rotate supplies every six months to ensure freshness.
Protect Your Home from Wildfire
When wildfires threaten Southern Arizona, home hardening and defensible space can save lives and property. Key steps include:
- Clear dead leaves and debris from your roof and gutters to prevent ember ignition
- Inspect roof tiles or shingles and replace any that are loose or missing
- Cover eave vents and openings with metal mesh screens to block embers
- Move firewood, mulch and flammable plants at least 30 feet away from exterior walls
- Create a defensible space zone at least 30 feet from your home by thinning vegetation and maintaining low, lean, green landscaping
- Remove combustible materials stored under decks and porches
Regular maintenance and home inspections before fire season can greatly reduce your wildfire risk.
Stay Informed with Emergency Alerts
Signing up for local alert systems ensures you receive timely updates on evacuations, shelter openings and hazard warnings:
- Oro Valley CodeRED: orovalleyaz.gov
- Marana Alerts: maranaaz.gov
- Pima County MyAlerts: pima.gov
Enable push notifications on your mobile device and keep a battery-powered radio on hand for areas with limited cell service.
About Golder Ranch Fire District
The Golder Ranch Fire District serves northwest Tucson, Oro Valley and Marana. Its mission is to protect life and property through fire suppression, emergency medical services and community education. This National Preparedness Month the district’s outreach team offers workshops on family preparedness, wildfire safety and CPR training.