Supervisor Piepho: Fire Season Defensible Space Inspections

CAL FIRE wants to remind residents that “creating and maintaining Defensible Space is critical for the protection of their home. This year we have increased our inspection staffing and now we need the public to make sure they, too, are prepared for the increased fire risk due the lack of rainfall and increased fire risk due to drought.”

Here are some tips that can help homes survive wildfires:

• Maintain 100 feet of Defensible Space around all structures.
• Clear all needles and leaves from roofs, eaves and rain gutters.
• Trim branches 6 feet from the ground.
• Use trimming, mowing and power equipment before 10 a.m.
• Landscape with fire resistant and drought tolerant plants that   require little water.
• Remove branches away from roofs and 10 feet from the chimney.
• Keep wood piles and flammable materials at least 30 feet from the home.
• Use fire ignition resistant building material.

For more information on preparing for wildfires and defensible space visit: www.readyforwildfire.org