Wildfire Prevention
How Can You Help Prevent Wildfires?
Every year, wildfires burn across the U.S., and more and more people are living where wildfires are a real risk. But by working together, residents can make their own property — and their neighborhood — much safer from wildfire. Every year, wildfires burn across the U.S., and more and more people are living where wildfires are a real risk. But by working together, residents can make their own property — and their neighborhood — much Risk Reduction safer from wildfire.
Action Items to Improve Your Home’s Survivability
Remove
Remove leaves, pine needles, and other flammable material from the roof, gutters, and on and under the deck to help prevent embers from igniting your home.
Screen
Screen areas below decks and porches with 1/8” wire mesh to help prevent material from accumulating underneath.
Cover
Cover exterior attic and soffit vents with 1/8” wire mesh to help prevent sparks from entering your home.
Enclose
Enclose leaves to help prevent ember entry.
Inspect
Inspect shingles or roof tiles. Replace missing shingles or tiles. Cover ends of tiles with bird stops or cement to help prevent ember penetration during a wildfire.
Tips for Landscaping Around Your Home
Remove
Remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials, especially within the first 5 feet of the home.
Keep
Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to help reduce fire intensity.
Prune
Prune tree limbs so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet above the ground to help reduce the chance of fire getting into the crowns of the trees.
Move
Move construction material, trash, and woodpiles at least 30 feet away from the home and other outbuildings.
Dispose
Dispose of branches, weeds, leaves, pine needles, and grass clippings that you have cut to reduce fuel for fire.
You Can Make A Difference!
Increase your wildfire safety.
Make simple low-cost changes to your home and landscape starting today.
Visit www.firewise.org for more information.