DIY Wildfire Preparation Checklist for Rural Properties

Living in a rural area offers peace, open space, and a connection to nature. However, it also comes with unique risks, especially when wildfire season approaches. Wildfires are unpredictable, but proactive preparation can make all the difference in protecting your property, animals, and loved ones. To help you get started, here’s a straightforward, empowering checklist to ensure your rural property is ready to face wildfire threats.

1. Create a Defensible Space

A defensible space is your property’s first line of defense against wildfires. It reduces the chances of a fire spreading and provides firefighters with a safe area to defend your home.

• Clear Vegetation
  Remove dead leaves, branches, and other debris within a 100-foot radius around your home, barns, and water tanks. Trim tree branches at least 10 feet away from structures.
• Use Fire-Resistant Landscaping
  Choose non-flammable plants and materials, such as gravel or stone, to create low-risk zones near buildings.
• Relocate Combustibles
  Store firewood, propane tanks, and other flammable materials at least 30 feet away from your house.
• Mow Your Grass
  Keep grass and weeds short, especially during dry summer months.

Tip

Work in zones, starting with the 30-foot immediate area around your most important structures before addressing the wider property.

2. Set Up and Maintain Your Water Storage System

Reliable water storage is essential for wildfire defense, whether you’re protecting animals, crops, or your home. Pioneer Water Tanks are an effective solution, but regular maintenance is key.

• Inspect Your Tank
  Look for cracks, rust, or signs of wear and tear. Address any issues before fire season starts.
• Clean the Tank Annually
  Remove sediment buildup to ensure maximum capacity and clean water.
• Install a Firefighting Adapter
  Equip your tank with a certified firefighting adapter to make it accessible to fire crews during emergencies.
• Place Tanks Strategically
  Ensure your tank is easy to access and away from heavy vegetation.

Tip

Consider using a rooftop sprinkler system connected to your water tank to soak your property when wildfires are near.

3. Monitor Your Water Resources with Ranchbot

Real-time data can save you from running out of resources when every second matters. Ranchbot is an easy-to-use tool that provides high visibility into your water reserves.

• Set Up Ranchbot for Your Water Tanks
  Install a Ranchbot monitoring device that links directly to your phone or laptop, letting you check water levels from anywhere.
• Receive Alerts
  Get notified of leaks, low levels, or sudden changes in water usage so you can act fast.
• Plan Ahead
  With Ranchbot insights, you can top off your tanks well before the wildfire season peaks.

Tip

Pair Ranchbot with multiple Pioneer Water Tanks to monitor large properties or remote livestock areas.

4. Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit

Wildfires can force you to evacuate quickly, so being ready to leave at a moment’s notice is crucial. Your emergency supply kit should be prepared well in advance.

• Essential Documents
  Store IDs, property deeds, insurance policies, and medical information in a fireproof container.
• Food and Water
  Pack enough non-perishable food and bottled water to last at least three days for each family member and pet.
• Protective Gear
  Include N95 masks, gloves, sturdy shoes, and fire-resistant clothing.
• First Aid Supplies
  Stock a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, medications, and pain relievers.
• Tools and Devices
  Carry a battery-powered radio, flashlights, spare batteries, and cell phone chargers.
• Evacuation Map
  Know your escape routes and have a printed map in case GPS is unavailable.

Tip

Store your emergency supplies in an easy-to-carry container like a backpack or duffel bag.

5. Prepare Your Animals

If you have livestock or pets, include them in your wildfire preparedness plan.

• Create an Evacuation Plan
  Have trailers ready for horses or larger animals. Smaller animals should have travel crates or leashes ready to grab.
• Stock Animal Supplies
  Include feed, water, medical supplies, and identification tags in your emergency kit for pets or livestock.
• Pre-Arrange Shelter
  Know where you can relocate your animals, such as a friend’s property or a temporary evacuation facility.

Tip

Train your animals to load into trailers quickly to save time during an emergency.

6. Test and Maintain All Equipment

Don’t wait until the fire is near to discover faulty equipment. Regular checks and testing will ensure everything works when needed.

• Test Hoses and Pumps
  Ensure your water pump and hoses are free of leaks and build adequate pressure for long-distance water deployment.
• Inspect Sprinkler Systems
  Run your sprinklers to confirm they evenly distribute water around your defensible space.
• Simulate Use
  Practice using your equipment, from water deployers to Ranchbot controls, so you’re comfortable with them during an emergency.

Tip

Run occasional wildfire drills to involve your household or employees in preparation efforts.

7. Communicate and Plan Ahead

Personal preparation goes a long way, but working with your neighbors and community can have a greater impact.

• Coordinate With Neighbors
  Share your plans and discuss how you can support one another during wildfire season.
• Stay Updated
  Subscribe to local emergency alerts and keep a list of emergency contacts, including fire authorities.
• Create a Family Plan
  Discuss evacuation routes, roles, and rally points with everyone in your household ahead of time.

Tip

Use apps or text threads to keep your communication plan simple and reliable.

Proactive Preparation Saves Lives

The reality of wildfires is nothing to take lightly. With the right tools, habits, and mindset, rural property owners can significantly increase their ability to protect their land, homes, and loved ones. By following the checklist above, you’ll not only have peace of mind but also the confidence to act decisively during wildfire season.

At Water Tanks West, we’re here to support your preparation efforts. From Pioneer Water Tanks to Ranchbot solutions, our advanced tools are designed with your safety in mind. Contact us today to get started on your wildfire defense system and take the first step in protecting what matters most.

Be prepared, stay safe, and take control of your property’s wildfire readiness today.