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Rural/Forest Fire Safety . . .

MAINTAIN HOME HEATING SYSTEMS
  • Have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually by a certified specialist.
  • Insulate chimneys and place spark arresters on top.
  • Extend the chimney at least three feet above the roof.
  • Remove branches hanging above and around the chimney.
HAVE A FIRE SAFETY AND EVACUATION PLAN
  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.
  • Practice fire escape and evacuation plans.
  • Mark the entrance to your property with signs that are clearly visible.
  • Ensure everyone in the home knows how to contact local emergency services.
  • Provide emergency vehicle access through roads and driveways at least 12 feet wide with adequate turnaround space.
MAKE YOUR HOME FIRE-RESISTANT
  • Use fire-resistant and protective roofing and materials like stone, brick and metal to protect your home.
  • Avoid using wood materials that offer the least fire protection.
  • Keep roofs and eaves clear of debris.
  • Cover all exterior vents, attics and leaves with metal mesh screens no larger than 6 millimeters.
  • Install multipane windows, tempered safety glass or fireproof shutters to protect large windows from radiant heat.
  • Use fire-resistant draperies for added window protection.
  • Keep tools for fire protection nearby: 100 foot garden hose, shovel, rake, ladder and buckets.
  • Make sure water sources, such as hydrants and ponds, are accessible to the fire department.
LET YOUR LANDSCAPE DEFEND YOUR PROPERTY
  • Trim grass on a regular basis up to 100 feet surrounding your home.
  • Create defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet around your home.
  • Beyond 30 feet, remove dead wood, debris and low tree branches.
  • Landscape your property with fire resistant plants and vegetation to prevent fire from spreading quickly.
  • Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home and other structures.
  • Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside the home, at least 30 feet away. from structures and wooden fences.
FOLLOW LOCAL BURNING LAWS
  • Do not burn trash or other debris without proper knowledge of local burning laws, techniques and the safest times of day and year to burn.
  • Before burning debris in a wooded area, make sure you notify local authorities and obtain a burning permit.
  • Use an approved incinerator with a safety lid or covering with holes no larger than 3/4 inches.
  • Create at least a 10 foot clearing around the incinerator before burning debris.

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