Mercury Insurance Shares How to Prepare for an Evacuation During Wildfire Season

Core Insights - Mercury Insurance emphasizes the importance of preparedness for families in wildfire-prone areas during Wildfire Awareness Month, providing practical guidance for potential evacuations [1][2]. Preparedness Tips - Create a Go-Bag for Every Household Member: Essential items should include IDs, medications, toiletries, spare keys, phone chargers, important documents, cash, water, snacks, and clothing, with special considerations for children, pets, and elderly family members [3]. - Prepare Your Vehicle in Advance: It is recommended to keep the gas tank at least half full during wildfire season and to store a physical map, emergency contact list, flashlight/lantern, and a backup power source for phones in the vehicle [4]. - Document Your Property: Homeowners should take photos or videos of each room, including valuables and appliances, and store these files securely online for future insurance claims [5]. - Make a Communication Plan: Establishing evacuation routes and a meeting spot is crucial, along with sharing the plan with neighbors and choosing an out-of-area contact for check-ins [6]. - Sign Up for Emergency Alerts: Enrolling in local emergency notification systems can provide real-time updates on evacuations [7]. - Prep Your Home Before You Leave: Actions include closing windows and doors, shutting off gas and propane, and removing flammable items from the yard, while leaving garden hoses connected and lights on for visibility [8]. Company Commitment - Mercury Insurance is dedicated to protecting homeowners in wildfire-prone areas and provides expert tools and guidance to help residents prepare for emergencies [9].