It’s hot. It’s dry. Now is the time to prepare for possible fire threats.
You can help keep our community and environment safe from wildfires, especially as we experience unseasonably warm weather this summer.
Here are some fire prevention tips:
• Observe the current burning moratorium, which will last until at least Sept. 30. Unsafe burning of leaves, brush, household trash and other debris is a main cause of wildfires. Outdoor cooking or recreational burning (campfires) require a no-fee burn permit that can be obtained online.
• If you are camping, check local restrictions on campfires. Use an approved gas stove as an alternative for heating and cooking. If charcoal grills are permitted, use them only over fire-proof surfaces, such as asphalt or bare mineral soil.
• Dispose of smoking materials properly. Extinguish them in an ashtray. Don’t throw them out your window.
• Avoid parking and idling in dry grass. Catalytic converters can get hot enough to ignite the grass.
• Avoid setting hot chainsaws or other gas-powered equipment in dry grass, which could ignite after coming into contact with hot mufflers.
• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. This prevents embers from igniting your home.
• Remove dead vegetation surrounding your home, within the 30-100 foot area.
• Don’t let debris and lawn cuttings linger. Dispose of these items quickly to reduce fuel for fire.
• When planting, choose slow-growing, carefully placed shrubs and trees so the area can be more easily maintained.
For more information, visit firewise.org.