Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

As Polk County continues to contend with several wildfires in the area, home owners and residents near these blazes need to take precautions.

To do so, Polk County will soon begin to utilize the “Ready, Set, Go!” program that has been used by other counties across the country to help prepare for these potential disasters.

“Ready, Set, Go!” is a program designed to help people understand their wildfire risks.

The program is designed to walk you through the steps to take to ensure you are prepared in the case of an approaching wildfire.

“Ready, Set, Go!” also utilizes three levels of evacuation:

Level 1 (Green) means there is a wildfire threat in your area and it is time to prep.

Level 2 (Yellow) means there is a high probability of a need to evacuate and you need to pack necessary items and prepare family, pets, and your vehicle for a potential exit.

Level 3 (Red) means it is Go! time. This is when occupants of the affected area(s) are asked to leave.

Here are some of the actions for the three steps:

Get Ready: This step begins with property owners taking action by creating an action plan that includes evacuation meeting locations and communication plans. These plans need to include the evacuation of all pets and large animals, which may include horses and livestock. Sign up for your local emergency notification system. Other things include: have fire extinguishers on hand and teach your household how to use them and assemble a Go Kit as recommended by the American Red Cross.

Get Set: Create a Wildfire Action Plan that includes evacuation planning for your home, family and pets. Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit for each person in your household. Fill out a Family Communication Plan that includes important evacuation and contact information. Stay tuned to your TV or local radio stations for updates.

Go: If there’s an active fire in your area, you need to be prepared before it is time to “Go!” When an evacuation order is issued, there is no time to waste. Ensure your bags and kit are in your vehicle, locate and load your pets, wear clothing that will protect you against heat and flying embers and GO! Also, it is ok to “Go!” before authorities give you a mandatory order if you’re feeling unsafe.

Leaving early gives you and your household members the best chance of surviving a wildland fire. You also help firefighters by keeping roads clear of congestion, enabling them to move more freely and do their job in a safer environment. Be sure to follow the direction of your local authorities. Do not wait to be advised to leave if there is a possible threat to your home or evacuation route. Leave early enough to avoid being caught in fire, smoke, or road congestion. If you are advised to leave by local authorities, do not hesitate!

If you are told to “Go,” remember the eight Ps: People and pet; Pictures and photo albums; personal computers, papers that are important to you, prescriptions and medications, plastic (credit cards), personal devices, and passports and IDs.