- Adhere to all local fire and building codes and weed abatement ordinances.
-Use approved fire- resistant materials when building, renovating, or retrofitting structures (this is extremely important for roofing materials).
-Install electrical lines underground if possible.
-Be sure your house numbers show clearly from the street, both day and night.
-Create defensible space - separate your home from flammable vegetation and materials (from 30' to 100' - PRC 4291).
-Keep all trees and shrub limbs trimmed so they do not come into contact with electrical wires or overhang your chimney (do not trim around live powerlines yourself; call a professional).
-Prune all lower branches 8 feet from the ground.
-Keep trees adjacent to buildings free of dead or dying branches.
-Keep roof surfaces clear of pine needles, leaves, and debris at all times.
-Install spark arresters for each chimney (PRC 4291).
-Clean chimneys and check and maintain spark arresters twice a year.
-Keep rain gutters clear of debris at all times.
-Storecombustible or flammable materials in approved containers.
-Stack firewood away from your home and other buildings (keep clearance around your piles).
-Store all important papers in a fireproof container or keep copies at another location.
-Make evacuation plans with family members. Include several options with an outside meeting place and contact person. Practice regularly.
-Keep battery operated radios and flashlights with additional fresh batteries on hand. |
-Turn on a battery- operated radio to get latest emergency information.
-If you have a ladder, prop it against the house so you and firefighters have access to roof.
-If hoses and adequate water are available, set them up. Fill buckets with water.
-Remove combustible materials from the area surrounding your house (lawn chairs, tables, etc.)
-Turn a light on in each room for visibility in case of smoke.
-Close all doors and windows, but do not lock them.
-Open or take down flammable drapes and curtains.
-Close all venetian blinds and non- flammable window coverings.
-Move upholstered furniture away from windows and sliding glass doors.
-Be ready to evacuate all family members and pets when requested to do so.
-Turn off air conditioning/air circulation systems.
-Detach electrical garage doors. Back-in your car and leave the keys in the ignition.
-Secure your pets if possible. |
-Check with fire officials before attempting to return to your home.
-Use caution when re-entering a burned area... flare-ups can occur.
-Check grounds for "hot spots" - smoldering stumps and vegetation. Use your buckets of water.
-Check the roof and exterior areas for sparks and embers.
-Check the attic and throughout the house for hidden burning sparks and embers.
-Continue to check for problem areas for several days.
-Contact 9-1-1 if any danger is perceived.
-If burning outside your home was extensive, watch for soil erosion. Consult local experts on the best way to restore and re-plant your land with fire safe landscaping. |