Farm and ranch families and citizens living in rural areas can help
protect their property duringpotentially severe wildfire seasons by
taking precautions before wildland fires break out. Fire experts
advise keeping a cleared space of 30 feet to 50 feet around homes and
other buildings. Keep grass mowed down whether it is green or
dormant.
Maintain space between trees and prune lower branches
well above ground-level. Keep tall grass, brush and trees out
from under utility lines to protect essential services. Make sure
roads and driveways are passable by wide vehicles in all types of
weather and that bridges are strong enough to support heavy water-laden
fire trucks. Make your address easily visible and include both
your house number and street name in your address. Other wildland
fire safety tips include the following:
Establish fuel breaks along roadways and between buildings and fields or woodlands.
Keep mufflers and spark arresters on agricultural equipment in proper working order.
Monitor
hay-baling operations closely. Check for hot bearings or hay
caught in rollers. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
Watch out for sparks when using welding equipment to build fences or repair equipment.
Avoid
driving or parking vehicles in grassy areas where tall, dry grass can
come into contact with hot pollution control equipment under your
vehicle.
Postpone outdoor burning until your area greens
up. Check with your local fire department to determine if all
restrictions on outdoor burning have been lifted.
