As Western Colorado braces for another wildfire season, local experts are urging folks not to wait until smoke’s at the door to get ready. Being prepared could make all the difference when minutes matter most.

The American Red Cross has a simple plan: get your kit, map out your plan, and stay plugged in. It might sound basic — but it can save your family a world of trouble when flames come knocking.

What to Pack in Your Go-Bag

Christie Caster, Executive Director for the Western Colorado Red Cross, knows a thing or two about what people forget when they’re in a rush.

One line: You don’t want to be that person standing on the sidewalk wondering where your meds went.

So, what goes in the Go-Bag? Here’s what Caster says to keep on hand:

• Non-perishable foods — stuff that’ll last a few days

• One gallon of water per day per person

• Copies of crucial documents like insurance, ID, and family photos

• Cash — because ATMs may be down

• Medications, contact lenses, and extra glasses

• Diapers, formula, or a comfort toy if you have little ones

• Pet supplies: food, bowls, and tags

One short sentence: Better to have it and not need it than the other way around.

Have a Plan — Before the Smoke Appears

A packed bag is only part of the puzzle. The next piece? A plan everyone knows.

One-liner: Wildfires move fast — you don’t want to be debating directions when sirens wail.

Caster says families should sit down and pick a meetup spot. Figure out how you’ll communicate if cell service fails. And make sure each person knows what to grab if there’s barely any time to think.

A quick look at emergency stats shows why it matters:

Stay Informed — Even While You Sleep

Information is like oxygen during fire season. If you’re not signed up for local emergency alerts yet, do it now.

• Follow your city and county on social media.

• Download emergency apps that give you real-time updates.

• Know where to find your evacuation route maps.

Caster says that every year, people miss updates because they assume they’ll “hear about it somehow.” But not every warning comes with a knock on the door.

One small reminder: Stay alert, even overnight.

Little Details Can Make a Big Difference

A Go-Bag and plan mean nothing if they’re collecting dust under a bed.

One-liner: Check your supplies every season.

Swap out expired food. Make sure medications haven’t changed. Double-check that your kids’ clothes still fit — they grow faster than you think!

One mother said she tosses a favorite stuffed animal in the bag every spring. “It’s the smallest comfort when everything else feels scary,” she said.

Bottom line? Don’t let fire season catch you off guard. A few careful steps today could mean a safer tomorrow.