This is a complete copy-n-paste from FEMA, but it is great information on how to reduce your chances of your house going up in flames! And this is not just for wild-fire prone areas. Any house should take these measures, as you never know where a fire will occur next!
Protecting your Home during a Wildfire
Wildfires
can spread rapidly, with little-to-no warning, often going unnoticed until it
is too late. These wildfires, commonly started by human error, quickly ignite
and burn through tinder-dry bushes and trees, and unfortunately spread to
nearby homes as well.
If
you live in a fire-prone area there are various ways that you can help reduce
the chance for severe damage to your home and property, by designing and
landscaping your home with wildfire safety in mind; selecting materials and
plants that can help contain a fire rather than fuel it.
For
home design and construction:
·
Use
fire-resistant or noncombustible materials on the roof and exterior structure
of the dwelling.
·
Treat
wood or combustible material used in roofs, siding, decking, or trim with
fire-retardant chemicals evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory.
·
Plant
fire-resistant shrubs and trees around your property such as hardwoods, and
avoid more flammable pine, evergreen, eucalyptus or fir trees.
For
home maintenance and safety:
·
Regularly
clean your roof and gutters to remove any debris;
·
Install
a fire alarm on every floor in your home and test monthly;
·
Have
a garden hose long enough to reach your home and any other structures on the
property;
·
Ask
the power company to remove any branches that are near or on the power lines;
and
·
Mow
your grass regularly.
A
great resource for proper home and property fire prevention planning is www.firewise.org. The site contains a variety of fire
safety and prevention information designed for residents, property
owners, fire departments, community planners, builders, public policy
officials, water authorities and architects. To learn about Firewise’s upcoming
Wildfire Education conference click
here.
Should
you be directed to evacuate your home due to a wildfire, follow the
instructions of local officials, and be sure to take your battery operated
radio, disaster
preparedness kit
and lock the door behind you when evacuating. If you have time to prepare the
home before leaving, visit the U.S.
Fire Administration
website for additional tips.
