5 Tips for Fire Safety on Woodland Property

One of a forest property owner’s greatest dangers is a forest fire. Blazes can quickly consume large amounts of property, including homes built within timber areas. Although this is obviously a serious concern, preventative measures can help decrease the likelihood of a fire starting, as well as reducing damage to the home in the event a fire does start.

The biggest and easiest way to help prevent forest fires is to properly extinguish all campfires and grills once they have served their purpose. Open flames left unattended are a tragic accident waiting to happen. Be responsible when handling flames in heavily wooded areas.

Ways to Keep Homes Safe

• Create a safety zone moving out from the home where no flammable materials are kept. Keep this zone clear of dead leaves, branches, and other materials that easily catch fire.

• Keep the roof and gutters free of flammable debris.

• Trim branches hanging over the house and trim shrubbery back from around the house to decrease the amount of material available to catch fire.

• Widen the access road to the home enough so emergency vehicles can get to it in the event a wildfire does begin.

• Treat any flammable materials used as part of the home or deck with fire retardant chemicals.

Wildfires are a dangerous occurrence, but with the right preparation and routines, the damage to your home can easily be reduced. Above all, have a safety plan in place with a clear path for evacuation.