Wildfire Safety: Protecting Our Community and Our Homes  

Wildfires can spread quickly and threaten lives, property, and natural resources. Clinton County is committed to keeping our residents safety by providing education and resources to help prevent wildfires and prepare for emergencies.  

Preventing Wildfires: 

Most wildfires are caused by human activity — and that means prevention starts with all of us.

Follow these safety tips to help reduce the risk:  

- Avoid Open Burns: Always check local burn bans and weather conditions before starting any fire.  
- Properly Dispose of Cigarettes: Never discard lit cigarettes on the ground or out of a vehicle.  
- Maintain Your Property: Keep grass cut short, remove dead vegetation, and create a defensible space around your home.  
- Use Equipment Safely: Avoid using chainsaws, mowers, or other equipment that can spark fires on dry, windy days.  

Be Prepared:  

Wildfires can happen with little warning. Make sure your family and home are ready:  
- Create an Emergency Plan: Ensure everyone in your household knows evacuation routes and has a communication plan.  
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and first aid supplies.  
- **Stay Informed:** Sign up for emergency alerts and follow official sources like the Clinton County Department of Emergency Services for updates.  

During a Wildfire:

- Evacuate Early: If evacuation orders are issued, leave immediately — your safety is the top priority.  
- Protect Your Home: If time allows, shut off gas, move flammable items away from your house, and close windows and vents.  
- Stay Clear: Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and avoid returning until authorities say it’s safe.  

Resources:  
- [Ready.gov Wildfire Safety](https://www.ready.gov/wildfires)  
- [National Fire Protection Association](https://www.nfpa.org)  
- For local updates, follow the Clinton County Department of Emergency Services on https://www.facebook.com/ccdes35

Together, we can reduce wildfire risk and keep our community safe.