The Postal Service wants employees to be aware of the risks of wildfires and have a preparedness plan in place.
So far this year, fires have burned more than 4.6 million acres throughout the United States, according to the National Interagency Fire Center, a support center for wildland fires and other emergencies. Recently, fires have had significant impacts in the West and Pacific Northwest.
Wildfires can spread quickly, particularly in areas experiencing extreme heat, high winds and little rain. Employees are encouraged to take the following steps to prepare themselves and their families for a wildfire:
• Sign up for your community’s warning alerts;
• Know your community’s evacuation plans;
• Build an emergency supply kit to use during an immediate evacuation;
• Keep important documents in a safe, fireproof place;
• Practice your family communications plan; and
• Plan for special needs during an evacuation, such as medication and pet care.
For the latest on USPS operational statuses in areas affected, check the Service Alerts page on about.usps.com.
The National Preparedness page on Blue has additional information on preparing for emergencies and natural disasters, including personal preparedness tips and a wildfire stand-up talk.
The Ready.gov website also has recommendations for wildfire preparedness.
Email us your feedback. Your comments could be included in our “Mail” column.
