As a result of wildfires in Southern Arizona and our experiences with local fires such as the Oversite, Merrit, Cimarron, A-Bar and Eureka fires over the past several years, Sheriff Dever issues some proactive measures for citizen's safety and welfare.

By preparing a simple "disaster kit" in advance that is readily available to take with you in the event of any mandatory evacuation to a wildfire or other catastrophe, critical time can be saved. Your 'kit" should include:

€ A change of clothing and sturdy shoes

€ A supply of food and water to last at least 24 hours

€ Blankets and/or sleeping bags

€ A first aid kit with basic prescription drugs

€ Extra pairs of glasses

€ A battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries

€ Credit cards and cash, medical cards, insurance cards

€ Special items for babies, elderly or disabled family members (oxygen, etc.)

€ Extra set of car keys, house keys

€ Cell phone, and a phone book with family members phone numbers

€ Board games, cards, entertainment for adults and children

€ Don't forget animal food, water containers

When any disaster strikes the better prepared you are, the faster you can get to safety for you and your family. Don't forget family pet and have an evacuation plan that includes any livestock relocation provisions made out of the immediate area.

Forest Service Officials have advised that fire conditions are now equal to those of June 2002, so it literally s not a matter of 'IF" a wildland fire starts, but rather "WHEN" a wildland fire starts. Proactive measure are necessary now, and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office has adopted a zero tolerance approach to anyone who contributes to fire conditions by discarding flammable materials such as cigarettes from vehicles. Offenders will be issued a citation and fined heavily.

Also remember that evacuation procedures include emergency equipment coming into an affected zone, so keeping the roadways clear and as unobstructed as possible is vital.

Sheriff Dever said today, "The importance of being prepared to face an emergency can literally mean the difference of life and death in some instances. By takin a few moments to identify what you would need in case of evacuation; to determine what action has to happen with pets and livestock; and to make sure that all underbrush and debris is moved away from your home to hinder the spread of fire, are just a few things that you can do now while you are in control instead of later when it may be too late. Be responsible and be safe."

For any additional information or to ask any questions please contact the Sheriff's Office at (520) 432-9500 or the U.S. Forest Service at (520) 388-8484.