Stop the rural fire before it starts:
- Burning yard waste is a fire hazard. Call your fire department on their non-911 number for fire permit requirements and restricted burning times.
- Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a certified specialist.
- When building a home or addition, use fire-resistant roofing materials. Avoid using wood materials that offer the least fire protection. Use fire-resistant siding like stucco, brick, stone, etc.
- Create a landscape that can defend your property from fire. You can defend you home from wild fires by thinning trees and brush at least 30 feet away from your home.Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home and other structures.
- 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.
Be prepared for a fire:
- One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that can sound fast for both a fire that has flames, and a smoky fire that has fumes without flames. It is called a “Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm.” A smoke alarm greatly reduces your chances of dying in a fire.
- Make sure emergency vehicles have access to your home by having driveways and roadways at least 12 feet wide with turnaround space.
- Post home address signs that are clearly visible from the road.
- Prepare an escape plan and practice it twice a year. Make sure everyone in your family knows at least two (2) escape routes from their bedrooms.
