Wildland Fire Prevention
It’s wildland fire season here in the state of Washington, and we’ve already seen some hot days that remind us of the wildfire risk that comes with high temperatures.
Take advantage of the forecasted cooler weather to prepare your home for wildfires!
Protect your home by establishing a defensible space.
A defensible space is the area around your home where vegetation, debris, and other flammable items have been cleared or reduced to slow the spread of the fire to and from the building.
Think of dominoes: it’s easier for dominoes to fall on top of each other because of the proximity, but when a barrier exists, it stops the chain effect. The same goes for fire.
The first five feet from your home are the most important. According to CAL FIRE, the majority of homes lost to wildfire are ignited by flying embers.
Create a defensible space by removing all dead and dry vegetation that could easily fuel the fire. Make sure vegetation, including the lawn around the home, is cut low and kept green.
A home with fire-resistant building materials will also increase the chances of surviving a wildfire.
According to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, there should be a minimum of five feet between branches. Trees should be limbed at least ten feet up to reduce the likelihood of fire spreading to the tops of the trees.
Along with creating a defensible space, make sure you’re prepared to evacuate. Pack a Go! kit and create an action plan with the help of the “Ready, Set, Go!” evacuation campaign. Be prepared to respond to the three levels of evacuation and the actions needed for each.
Don’t wait for a wildfire to act — readiness begins early. Visit the West Pierce Emergency Management Coalition website for more information on how to be prepared.