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September is Realtor Safety Month: Have an Evacuation Plan

Every September, the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors joins the National Association of Realtors in highlighting information to keep the members and consumers safe. The month of September is also recognized as National Preparedness Month. This week, Silicon Valley Realtors share tips for a safe evacuation in case of fire or other disasters.

Northern California has been especially hit hard this year by wildfires. The Dixie Fire, the largest wildfire in the state, has burned more than 750,000 acres, and the Caldor Fire, which started on August 14 has spread at a catastrophic rate and is now bearing down on the Lake Tahoe region, forcing many families to evacuate their homes and seek safety elsewhere.

"This is wildfire season and even if the large fires are not in the Bay Area, this is a good time to stress safety and preparedness," said Joanne Fraser, president of the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors (SILVAR). "We need to be vigilant and have a plan in case we face the same danger or any disaster for that matter and we are told to evacuate our home."

SILVAR shares the following evacuation tips from ready.gov, the official website of the Department of Homeland Security, and HouseLogic.com, a source of information for homeowners, homebuyers and sellers from the National Association of Realtors.

Make a Plan

• Assign an out-of-state contact to let them know where you are going.
• Decide on where to meet as a family in case you get separated.
• Always have your vehicle's gas tank filled in case you must evacuate right away.
• Sign up for free text alerts from your county.
• In case the power shuts off, have a battery-operated radio and keep a charged battery pack for your cell phone, so you will not be cut off from the news and can contact people.
• Learn how to safely shut off all utilities in your home.
• Prepare a checklist of what to take and what to do.

What to Take

• Your driver's license
• The deed to your house and other important documents related to your home and financial accounts
• Proof of insurance
• Medical records
• Passports, Social Security cards and other important proof of identity documents
• A list of personal contacts
• A grab-and-go bag withessential supplies, such as water, food, medication, and first-aid supplies, pet food. Don't forget to include face coverings, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to protect you from coronavirus.
• Cash in small bills, as the ATM and credit cards machines may not be working

What to Do Before You Leave

• Lock all the doors and windows in your home.
• Unplug electrical equipment such as televisions, computers, and small appliances. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding. If there is damage to your home and you are instructed to do so, shut off water, gas and electricity before leaving.
• Leave a note telling others when you left and a phone number to reach you.
• Wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, heavy shoes/boots, a windbreaker or light coat, cap, face mask, goggles or glasses.
• Gather your pets and load them in the car.

"Departing right away before a mandatory evacuation order is declared can help you avoid being caught in a fire or flood, or in gridlocked traffic along with other families trying to leave," said Fraser. "This is why having a plan will keep you and your family clam should a fire or other disaster strike and you are ordered to evacuate your home."

The Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® (SILVAR) is a professional trade organization representing over 4,000 REALTORS® and Affiliate members engaged in the real estate business on the Peninsula and in the South Bay. SILVAR promotes the highest ethical standards of real estate practice, serves as an advocate for homeownership and homeowners, and represents the interests of property owners in Silicon Valley.

The term "REALTOR®" is a registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and who subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

Variations of this article have appeared in local area newspapers.

For further information, please email or call the SILVAR office at (408) 200-0100.

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