|
Homeowners who live in or
near wildland areas are urged to act now to protect their homes
from wildland fires.
 The
destructive potential of wildland fire has increased
dramatically in recent years as more and more people build homes
in or near wildland areas.
Homeowners who spend the
time and energy to make their homes "fire safe" will
not only reduce the risk of wildland fires destroying their
home, but will also make it easier and safer for firefighters to
protect their home in the event of a fire.
Here are some things
homeowners can do to reduce fire hazards on their property:
-
Clear leaves, brush
and dry grass from within 30 feet of houses and other
structures. This will reduce the chance of a wildland
fire reaching them and providing a safety zone or
"defensible space" for firefighters to work
in. Keep the area cleared throughout the fire season.
-
Remove all trees
within 10 feet of the house and space remaining trees at
least 10 feet apart. Cut off all brances up to 6 feet
from the ground to prevent ground fires from spreading into
treetops.
-
Clean the roof and
rain gutters regularly, keeping them free of twigs, leaves,
and pine needles. Remove all tree limbs within 10 feet
of the chimney or stovepipe.
-
Store firewood and
other combustible materials such as picnic tables at least
30 feet away from the house and other buildings and clear a
space of at least 10 feet around them.
-
Post the house address
along the road at the driveway entrance as well as on the
house.
-
Apply a fire retardant
solution to wood shingle and shake roofs.
To get more information on fire resistive plants
for your landscaping, please
click here!
|
