Imagine this: A wildfire ignites near your community. Within hours, flames engulf the landscape, power lines are downed, gas stations are closed, water pressure drops to a trickle, and ATMs are offline. Roads are blocked, and evacuation becomes impossible. Are you prepared to survive in a place without power, water, or access to essential services?

The Stark Reality of Wildfire-Induced Infrastructure Failures

Wildfires are not just a threat to forests—they can decimate entire communities and cripple essential infrastructure. The 2018 Camp Fire in California, for instance, destroyed over 18,000 structures and resulted in 85 fatalities, making it the deadliest wildfire in the state’s history (Wikipedia, 2024). Similarly, the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire in Canada resulted in the evacuation of approximately 88,000 people and caused extensive damage to the city’s infrastructure, including its power and water systems (Wikipedia, 2024).

These disasters underscore the importance of being prepared for scenarios where evacuation isn’t possible, and residents must shelter in place without access to power, water, or other utilities.

Critical Considerations for Sheltering in Place

1. Power Outages

Power outages during wildfires can be prolonged, affecting not just lighting but also heating, cooling, communication, and food preservation. The American Red Cross advises that during a power outage:

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain cold temperatures. A full freezer can maintain a frozen state for approximately 48 hours, while a half-full freezer can retain a frozen state for about 24 hours.
  
• Use coolers with ice, if necessary, to prevent food from spoiling.
  
• Turn off and unplug unnecessary electrical equipment to avoid damage from power surges when electricity is restored (American Red Cross, n.d.).
  

2. Water Supply Disruptions

Wildfires can damage water infrastructure, resulting in a loss of water pressure or contamination. It’s crucial to:

• Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation (Ready.gov, n.d.).
  
• Have water purification methods on hand, such as boiling, using water purification tablets, or filters.
  

3. Fuel Shortages

Gas stations rely on electricity to pump fuel. During power outages, access to fuel can be severely limited. To mitigate this:

• Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full at all times.
  
• Store fuel safely in approved containers, if possible.
  
• Consider alternative power sources, such as solar-powered generators, for essential devices.
  

4. Communication Failures

Power outages can disrupt communication networks, making it difficult to receive emergency updates. To stay informed:

• Have a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio to receive emergency alerts.
  
• Keep a list of emergency contacts and local emergency services.
  

Essential Supplies for Sheltering in Place

To prepare for sheltering in place during a wildfire-induced emergency, assemble an emergency kit that includes:

• Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days.
  
• Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable food items.
  
• Lighting: Flashlights with extra batteries.
  
• Communication: Battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
  
• First Aid Kit: Including necessary medications.
  
• Sanitation: Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties.
  
• Tools: Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
  
• Documents: Copies of important documents in a waterproof container.
  
• Clothing: Appropriate clothing and bedding for your climate.
  

Conclusion

Wildfires can escalate rapidly, leaving little time to react. By preparing in advance and understanding the potential challenges of sheltering in place—such as power outages, water supply disruptions, fuel shortages, and communication failures—you can increase your resilience and safety during such emergencies.

References

• American Red Cross. (n.d.). Power Outage Checklist. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Power_Outage/PowerOutage.pdf
  
• Ready.gov. (n.d.). Be Prepared for a Power Outage. Retrieved from https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2024-03/ready.gov_power-outage_hazard-info-sheet.pdf
  
• Wikipedia. (2024). Camp Fire (2018). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camp_Fire_(2018)
  
• Wikipedia. (2024). 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2016_Fort_McMurray_wildfire
  

Note: This guide is intended to provide general information on emergency preparedness. For specific advice and assistance, consult local emergency management agencies and resources.