Have any plans for the Memorial Day weekend? How about getting your home and property ready for Oregon’s summer fire season by taking steps now to create a zone that can stop the spread of destructive wildfire.
An increasing percentage of Oregon’s residents are living in less urbanized areas or residential areas that include forests, seeking opportunities to enjoy trees and natural beauty right outside their door. However, the risk of being affected by wildfire can also increase.
You can significantly reduce your risk of wildfire in just a few hours. Prepare your home to be wildfire-resistant by focusing on your home ignition zone. In the first 30 feet around your home, create a fire-resistant zone to help reduce the spread of wildfire and protect your property.
ODF urges homeowners to take these simple steps to protect your home and reduce your risk of losing your home to a rapidly moving wildland fire:
• Define your defensible space – 30 feet away from your home.
• Reduce flammable brush around your home and under nearby trees.
• Prune or remove trees.
• Keep grass and weeds cut low.
• Clear wood piles and building materials away from your home.
• Keep your yard and roof clean.
• Keep address signs visible.
• Choose fire-resistant building materials and lawn furniture.
• Recycle yard debris – avoid burning.
• Be prepared to respond to wildfire.
Many more ideas are available on the FireWise website, and more information about wildfire protection is available on the Oregon Department of Forestry website.
Kevin Weeks
ODF Agency Affairs Office
kweeks@odf.state.or.us