It is often said in jest that California has four seasons: fire, earthquake, mudslide, and flood. Although it seems to have come a bit early this year, the official start of fire season is just around the corner, and if you live in one of the state's many beautiful canyons, hill formations, or grassy valleys, a little prevention will be doing your part for your family, your neighbors, and those who toil day in and day out to protect our citizens. Let's look at 10 things you can do to promote safety and fire prevention both on your property and in your neighborhood.
1. Acquaint yourself with all fire hydrants on your block and within the neighborhood. You will then be a great help in the event of a disaster.
2. Never prune plants near power lines. Call the utility company and follow their advice before trimming. They may even come out to assist you.
3. Use fire-resistant plants when landscaping.
4. Maintain all plants by removing dead branches, needles and leaves, watering regularly, and mulching around the base to promote moisture.
5. Space your landscaping so that there is no direct pathway to the house or its nearby plants for a fire to travel.
6.Limit weeds and grass to a six-inch height.
7. Keep lower tree branches cut to clear six feet at the base of your trees.
8. Maintain a clear, defensible space of about 100 feet around your home.
9. Always soak fireplace ashes and barbecue coals in water before disposal.
10. Store gasoline ONLY in an approved container, away from occupied buildings, and especially from heat or electrical sources.
These are just a few of the ways you can do your part to prevent or assist with the ongoing struggle against wildfires. Check back with Property I.D. News in the future for more information on wildfires and other natural hazards.