The Postal Service is reminding employees that wildfire risks increase rapidly during the warm, dry summer months.
The nation experienced more than 67,000 wildfires that burned approximately 5.5 million acres of land last year, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.
Wildfires are one of nature’s most destructive forces, capable of moving as fast as 14 miles per hour.
Droughts, dry conditions and careless use of fire in wooded areas can trigger a wildfire, which can quickly spread across trees and dry brush and threaten nearby homes and businesses.
Large fires can create their own winds and weather. Major fires can generate hurricane-force winds, up to 120 miles per hour.
Wildfires can also change direction unexpectedly and jump gaps, including roads and rivers.
The Postal Service takes steps to prepare for wildfire emergencies. The USPS National Preparedness site has wildfire emergency response checklists for mail processing facilities and district and area offices.
The Ready.gov site has additional tips and information.