Safety Tip Tuesday - Wildfire Preparation

In 2016, over 67,000 wildfires were reported across the US. In total, the wildfires destroyed over 4,000 structures. 3,000 of the structures destroyed were residential. As commercial and personal real estate development expands into forests and grasslands, the odds of wildfire related property damage goes up.

You can’t fight back a wildfire that is encroaching on your home or business. However, you can take steps to protect it and evacuate when necessary. Learn how you can help protect your home or business from a wildfire. Keep you and your family safe and know how and when to evacuate.

Before a Wildfire

Secure your property for a wildfire. One of the first steps you can take to defend against a wildfire is limiting the fuel sources around your home or business.

Within 30 Feet From Your Home

• Clear combustible materials such as dried leaves and pine needles.

• Cut down any tree limbs that are 15 feet or closer to the ground. This will help prevent the fire from spreading into your property’s tree line.

• Remove any vines or vegetation that is on the side of your house or business.

• Place any flammable lawn furniture in storage when not in use.