IAR Logo

Fire Mitigation Tips

CREATE AND MAINTAIN A DEFENSIBLE SPACE AROUND YOUR HOME AND OTHER OUTDOOR STRUCTURES

  • Thin and remove vines, tress, shrubs, tall grass and other flammable vegetation within 30 feet of your home;
  • Prune bushes and shrubs, remove dead leaves and overhanging branches;
  • Regularly clean your roof and gutters by removing leaves, branches and pine needles/cones;
  • Remove trash and debris near your property;
  • Landscape with fire resistant plants;
  • Place woodpiles and wooden picnic tables away from structures; and
  • Store combustible or flammable materials in approved safety containers away from structures.

CREATE A SECONDARY SAFETY ZONE AT LEAST 125 FEET AROUND STRUCTURES

  • Remove fallen trees and firewood debris;
  • Trees or bushes should be thinned to maintain 10 feet between tree canopies;
  • Trim trees up from the ground to eliminate ladder fuels; and
  • Ask the power company to clear branches from power lines.

ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS, BUSINESSES AND LOCAL OFFICIALS

  • Replace roof with fire-resistant materials;
  • Identify more than one means of access into and out of a community;
  • Provide fire breaks to prevent the spread of fire; and
  • Provide fire roads to aid in firefighting