Certain parts of the country are especially prone to fires. Dry wild grasses and trees that come right up to your home will create a fire hazard. There are things you should do to protect your home.
Clear Vegetation
Thirty feet is the minimum required distance of clear vegetation. However, it can be necessary to clear up to 400 feet of an area near the home. You should consider the following factors: wind, slope, neighborhood density, and architectural styles. In other words, will a fire spread quickly or slowly? And, if it does, will your home catch fire easily or not.
Remove Dead Plants
Remove any dead plants in or around your home. If a tree is mostly healthy, but has some dead branches, cut the dead branches off.
Keep Plants Watered
During the heat of the summer keep all the plants watered well.
Plant Placement
Don't place plants right next to the home. Instead, create islands that are 30 feet or more away from the home.
Maintenance
Keep shrubs and trees to minimal growth. Larger trees and shrubs growing out of control are more of a hazard then well controlled smaller plants.
Siding
Avoid materials that burn. Stucco or aluminum siding is better than wood.
Fences
Use metal, stone, or vinyl. Stay away from wood fencing.
Decks
Build with stone, concrete, masonry, or tile. Avoid using wood.
Fire hose
If possible, set up a pump to work with your fire hose. Make sure the fire hose can reach all around your home. If you have a pool or hot tub, set up your pump and fire hose to use this water.
Hydrant
Keep it clear for fire personnel. With city permission, learn how to hook your fire hose up to the hydrant.
For additional landscape information, please visit Outdoor Shower
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