When it comes to wildfire preparedness, there are a number of great resources available from many credible agencies, including: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), American Red Cross, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and US Fire Administration (USFA), among many others. AARBF’s Wildfire P.R.E.P.A.R.E. organizes the information, tips and guidance provided by these agencies and organizations into 7 easy steps on how you can P.R.E.P.A.R.E. for a wildfire.

Every year in the United States, wildfires burn more than 5 million acres. They can destroy homes, businesses, and decimate entire communities. They sometimes result in the death of loved ones and can inflict life-threatening burn injuries. It is not surprising that wildfires can have a tremendous psychological impact on children. This document addresses some of the ways children may be affected by wildfires, and offers suggestions about how to help restore a sense of safety and comfort in their world.

Wildfires are stressful for any adult and bring up feelings of fear, helplessness, anger, grief and loss (these are just a sample of the many feelings). Our body has built in responses that help us respond to danger and put us into action for survival. Yet when someone has already experienced a traumatic event, especially but not limited to a burn due to fire, old trauma and unresolved trauma can be activated.

California has seen the most destructive and deadly wildfires over the past recent years due to a number of reasons, learn more about how AARBF has responded to assist.