Essential Tips for Business Continuity During the 2024 Wildfire Season

While July often marks the peak wildfire season in the United States and Canada, earlier and more frequent blazes are impacting many regions worldwide. This year is no exception, with reports of over 17,739 wildfires already burning more than 2 million acres in the United States alone, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Higher temperatures are a significant contributor to wildfires due to hot, dry conditions that bring extended periods of drought. Based on a report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration there’s a 61% chance that 2024 will break temperature records, shaping up to be the hottest summer on record and further contributing to natural disasters such as wildfires. While a lower fire risk season was initially expected this year, it remains uncertain if this prediction will hold as the weather continues to become hotter and drier. It's imperative for businesses and individuals to remain prepared and informed about the necessary precautions in case of wildfire impact, whether direct or indirect.

According to the World Health Organization, wildfires are increasing in frequency, severity and duration, causing significant interruptions to essential services such as transportation, communications, power, gas services and water supply. Additionally, wildfire smoke has serious impacts on health, including potential cognitive impairment and memory loss, while also contributing to global warming through the emission of hazardous pollutants. As we approach peak season, International SOS advises businesses and organisations to take steps to protect their people from these indirect side effects and prepare for all possible circumstances. This includes preparing comprehensive plans for medical assistance, remote work arrangements and air purification measures.

Josh Dozor, General Manager of Medical and Security Assistance at International SOS, said,

The early onset of the 2024 wildfire season is a clear reminder of the importance of preparedness. It is essential for organisations to review and update their emergency response plans, ensuring that all employees are aware of the risks and necessary safety protocols. With 2024 forecasted to be the hottest summer on record, a thorough awareness of emergency alerts, high-risk locations, and evacuation routes is more critical than ever to reduce the loss of life.

Dr Myles Druckman, Global Medical Director at International SOS, said,

Many regions across the world, including the Northern Hemisphere, Southern Hemisphere and Europe, are already experiencing the severe impact of this year's wildfires, surpassing more than half of last year’s total incidents, and we're still ahead of peak season.

Businesses must plan early and update their contingency strategies to protect their employees and operations. One of the top ways to eliminate the risk of unpreparedness is by ensuring employees are well versed in all emergency preparedness plans and able to execute them in case of potential disruptions.

International SOS has more than 35 years of experience providing security and health advice and support to organisations facing extreme natural events. Managers with operations in at-risk areas should ensure they have comprehensive procedures in place to guarantee business continuity, factoring in the potential need for evacuation or relocation of the workforce.

International SOS shares best practice tips that organisations can share with their employees for wildfire preparedness:

1. Prepare their residential property: Individuals should take necessary measures to keep safe including removing flammable materials and vegetation in a 30-foot radius of structures. Outdoor furniture should be brought inside or placed in swimming pools. All windows and doors should be closed and left unlocked. Curtains should be taken down; fire-resistant window coverings should be considered. Sprinklers and running water should be cut off to preserve critical water pressure. Gas and electricity supply should be turned off to minimise residual damage.
2. Inform employees on evacuation options. It is crucial that employees identify potential alternative accommodations in case evacuation is necessary. These may be friends’ or relatives’ homes in other towns, public shelters or hotels. It is recommended that they know how to reach their pre-identified accommodation and be ready to take alternative routes if major roads are disrupted. They should have a disaster plan in place, including meeting locations and communication plans, accounting for potential power disruption. It is important that an emergency supply kit is kept ready and multiple evacuation routes are planned.
3. Promote awareness of the negative implications of wildfire smoke on air quality and how to prepare properly. Even if an employee is hundreds of miles away from a fire, it may impact the air quality in their area. To best prepare, it is advised to have air purifiers on hand and to stay indoors as much as possible. If it becomes necessary to go outdoors, ensure N95 masks are available on-hand.
4. Ensure employees know who to contact in case of an emergency. Police, emergency services, International SOS Assistance Centre and other local numbers should be saved. Employees should write down these details if their phone runs out of power and is unable to be recharged. They should also designate an out-of-area contact person in case of group separation.
5. Provide employees with up-to-date information and resources to stay alert and understand the risks and implications caused by wildfires.