Fire Prevention - Protect Your Home From Wildfire

Fire Prevention
Protect Your Home From Wildfire

Wildfire can be devastating, causing loss of home and lives. If you live in a zone that expects wildfire, or near an area where a fire breaks out, there are several tips you can use to help save your home. A wildfire is generally an uncontrolled forest fire. One that has gotten out of hand and burning near residential areas.

There are several measures you can take as a homeowner to help protect your property. One of the best ways to achieve this is to create a fire safe zone around your home. You will want to clear flammable vegetation, and debris from around your house and outbuilding. You want at least 30 feet of clearance, more if possible.

Trim evergreens of their lower limbs. When dry, evergreens catch fire quickly and burn fast. This can help the fire spread to your home if not trimmed properly. You will also want to remove any limbs that hang over your roofing structures. Also, clean out your gutters, making sure they are free of leaves and debris. This helps to prevent the spread of wildfire to your home if sparks should travel. You can also use fire proofed roofing materials.

Store flammable liquids, such as fuel or kerosene cans well away from your home. If wildfire spreads to your property, it is better for combustible fluids to be away from your house. You will also want to store firewood away from your dwelling, and out of your fire safe zone.

Have an escape plan should the wildfire reach your property. Make sure that your plan involves your family, so that everyone knows what to do. Practice your escape plan. The best way to protect your home in any type of fire is preparedness. Make sure that firefighters can find your home by clearly marking house numbers and your driveway. Should a situation arise, this makes response time faster and can help save your home.

Should your home be threatened by wildfire, DO NOT try to fight it. This can lead to serious personal injury or even death. Wildfire are big and out of control. Immediately put your escape plan in effect and call the proper emergency officials. The best way you can help save your home in this case is by being out of the way and allowing the professionals to do their job.

You invest a lot of money and time into your property, and loss due to a wildfire can be devastating. Taking preventative measures and being prepared can help save your home and family should you be threatened with a wildfire. However, should the situation arise and a wildfire does claim your home, you will want to make sure that your homeowners insurance covers such an event. Keep a copy of your insurance policy in a safe location away from your home.

Create a fire safe zone around your home, and clearly mark your house number and driveway. Keep flammable materials stored a safe distance from your home and keep trees trimmed. Always practice good fire safety and your home will be safe, even in the event of a wildfire.

Author: Smokey Signal
SmokeySignal.com offers additional information and resources on fire prevention & education, as well as Smokey Bear related merchandise.