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Experts say that although people realize the dangers posed by wildfires and other natural forces, they often don't do all that is necessary to keep themselves and their possessions safe. A recent survey by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Project Impact found that 86 percent of homeowners thought their communities were at risk from forces such as tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and wildfires, but 52 percent did not know there were things they could do to protect their homes.
In the case of wildfires, experts recommend that people who live in fire-prone areas build their homes from fireproof materials, such as fire-retardant siding and clay roofing tiles. Also create an escape plan in the event of a fire and clear dense brush and trees within 100 feet of the home.
Be sure to watch local weather reports for fire patterns and threats in your area. It is important to work with your local communities to prevent wildfires from starting.
Create a Fire Safe Landscape
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In a well-irrigated 30 foot area surrounding your home, provide space for fire suppression equipment in event of emergency. Plants should be limited to carefully spaced, low flammability species.
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Moving farther away from your home, use low flammability plant materials. Plants should be low growing and the irrigation system should extend into this area.
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Selectively prune and thin all plants and remove highly flammable vegetation from the area around your house.
Responding to a Wildfire
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Call 911 immediately to report a fire. Do not attempt to put out the fire yourself.
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Evacuate the area if you are ordered to do so and be aware of evacuation routes.
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For several hours after the fire, maintain a “firewatch.” Recheck the house and surrounding area thoroughly for smoke and sparks. Let authorities know if there are still smoldering areas.
Preventing Wildfires
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Contact your fire department or forestry office for information on fire laws.
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Report hazardous conditions.
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Teach children about fire safety.
