- 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.