| Now
is the Time to Create Defensible Space
As temperatures begin to increase and conditions continue
to dry out, I urge you to take advantage of this time
to create a 100 foot zone of defensible space around
your homes.
Now is the time to begin working on your defensible
space. By simply following the tips listed below, homeowners
can decrease the chance of their home being destroyed
by a wildfire.
Tips to help your home survive
a wildfire:
* Remove all flammable vegetation 30 feet from all structures.
* In an additional 70 feet, space trees and plants away
from each other.
* Clear all needles and leaves from roofs, eaves and
rain gutters.
* Trim branches six feet from the ground.
* Use trimming, mowing and power equipment before 10
a.m. and after 6 p.m., not in the heat of the day and
not during extremely dry and windy days.
* Landscape with fire resistant plants.
* Use fire ignition resistant building materials
Beginning in April, CAL FIRE, Forest Service, Bureau
of Land Management and local fire department staff will
be out performing defensible space inspections on state
responsibility lands. The purpose of these inspections
is to ensure your home meets the requirements of Public
Resource Code 4291.
If you’re unable to perform the clearance yourself,
contact your local Fire Safe Council. Many Councils
have programs to assist those who are physically or
financially unable to perform the work themselves. To
find a Fire Safe Council near you, visit www.firesafecouncil.org
or call toll free (866) 372-2543.
Remember Defensible Space
is YOUR Responsibility
Brad Lutts, Lassen-Modoc-Plumas
Unit Chief
Email: brad.lutts@fire.ca.gov
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