DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Defensible space is a buffer zone around your home that reduces the risk of a wildfire starting or spreading to your home. It is also a space that allows emergency services to work safely within.


STEPS TO DEFENSIBLE SPACE
  1. Clear all combustible materials a minimum of 30 feet away from structures and propane tanks.
  2. Thin trees and brush 30-100 feet out from your home. This removal is considered necessary to accommodate buildings and other structures.
  3. Space trees so crowns are 10 feet apart.
  4. Prune low hanging trees 6-10 feet up from the ground.
  5. Cut grass and weeds regularly.
  6. Retain and/or plant Native Species.
  7. Aspen and Douglas-fir are good alternatives to lodgepole pine and are not prone to the mountain pine beetle infestation.
  8. Relocate firewood and picnic tables at least 30 feet from your home.
  9. Keep roof, gutters, and yard free of pine needles and debris.
  10. Replace wood shake and single roofing with nonflammable or fire resistant materials.
  11. Continually familiarize yourself with area evacuation plan.