– Collect any and all debris in your yard or on the property exterior that could catch fire or be used to attack your home.

– Set “alarms” inside and outside of your home to alert you if someone is approaching. Fishing line or dental floss and aluminum cans can serve as a makeshift signal.

– Dowse the exterior of your home with a garden hose every few hours as a precaution.

– Purchase fire extinguishers. Be sure they are ready for use.

– Fill your bathtub with water, and keep a bucket or other receptacle handy to dowse fires that enter the home.

– Have sheets and towels available for first aid and other practical uses.

– While experts recommend rinsing your eyes with water if you’re exposed to tear gas, milk is a commonly used solution to disarming the compounds of OC spray and CS gas, and may be gentler on skin. Starting with water then following with milk may provide relief.

– Know your neighbors and who on the block or in the building has a medical background for assistance in an emergency. Ask them to be part of your safety plan.

Maya Washington

Writing since February 2022 · 1 story contributed