At a community level, we are working to reduce the risk of wildfires, but did you know that FireSmart offers helpful steps that you can take right in your own back yard? As we are all itching to get outdoors this time of year, we thought there was no better time to walk you through each of the four FireSmart zones (Fig.1).
Figure 1: FireSmart Zones - Credit FireSmart - Click image to enlarge
Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing simple steps in each of the zones to help reduce your wildfire risk. This week we’re starting with the non-combustible zone - this is the area 0 – 1.5 m from your home. Why worry about this zone? Well, those embers falling from the sky might seem small, but did you know that 50% of home fires caused by wildfires start with sparks and embers? Regular work around your home (e.g., cleaning up wood debris, leaves and other flammable items) can make all the difference! FireSmart invites you to consider things like your roof, chimney, gutters, eaves & vents, siding, windows, doors, decks and fences/outbuildings and offers some simple, low-cost steps you can take to reduce your risk (Fig. 2 below)!
Well, that should keep you busy for a few weeks! Stay tuned for more tips from FireSmart.
Don’t want to wait until our next tip? Check out the FireSmart site and download the FireSmart Begins at Home Manual (PDF) and get all the juicy details yourself! The manual outlines the steps you can take at home to reduce the risk of wildfire and even offers a FireSmart home assessment.
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