The Payson Roundup: Help firefighters by clearing property and being prepared

The 2004 fire season

Help firefighters by clearing property and being prepared

Friday, July 2, 2004

Payson and Pine residents don't have to be out fighting the flames to support the Willow Fire effort. There are plenty of options for those wanting to help.

One way is to show appreciation to the local fire and police departments, the town council and the information officers from the firefighting team.

Payson Fire Marshal Mike Winters said the fire department is always accepting plates of cookies, but there are more important things citizens can do.

"Go out and take a walk around your own yard," he said. "Clear out dead brush, wood piles and construction material. Clean out any hazards in case something goes horribly wrong."

Another way to help the effort is to prepare yourself and your family.

The Red Cross recently sent out a list of tips in case of wildfire or evacuation. One is to keep a Disaster Supplies Kit in your home year-round.

The kit should include copies of important paperwork, non-perishable food, bottled water, prescription medications and a supply of cash.

Jake Saylor, Red Cross communications manager, said the Red Cross always wants volunteers.

"Consider being a Red Cross volunteer and helping the community throughout the year," he said.

If the Red Cross has to open evacuation shelters, it will definitely need volunteers.

Right now volunteers are standing by in Payson and Show Low.

"In the event that the Red Cross is called into action -- meaning evacuations -- it can set up shelters," Saylor said.

He added that there are trailers with cots and blankets placed in Northern Arizona, ready for shelters.

"We're monitoring the situation, attending briefings and getting the most up-to-date information as possible."