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

1

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.

2

Screen

Screen areas below decks and porches with 1/8” wire mesh to help prevent material from accumulating underneath.

3

Cover

Cover exterior attic and soffit vents with 1/8” wire mesh to help prevent sparks from entering your home.

4

Enclose

Enclose leaves to help prevent ember entry.

5

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

1

Remove

Remove dead vegetation and other flammable materials, especially within the first 5 feet of the home.

2

Keep

Keep your lawn hydrated and maintained. If it is brown, cut it down to help reduce fire intensity.

3

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.

4

Move

Move construction material, trash, and woodpiles at least 30 feet away from the home and other outbuildings.

5

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.