Wildfire safety and prevention starts at home. Wildfires can be started by lightning strikes or by man-made causes.  Wildfires burn on average over 7 million acres in the US annually.  Dry vegetation, hot conditions, and an ignition source are the typical conditions that lead to wildfires.

During drought conditions, as we are currently experiencing, fuels for wildfire, such as grass, leaves and trees, can dry out and become more flammable.  Drought can also increase the probability of ignition and the rate at which fire spreads.

Here are some suggestions for you on how to protect your home and prevent fires from even happening:

• Spotting a Fire – Should you see a wild fire call 911
• Cigarette butts – Smokers should use fire-safe containers or designated ashtrays to dispose of cigarette butts. They should also fully extinguish cigarettes before discarding them and avoid smoking in areas that are prone to fire, especially when it’s dry and windy. Never throw them out of a moving car.
• Fire Pits – Outdoor fire pits should not be used during extremely dry conditions. A spark combined with the dry vegetation creates ideal conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly.
• Parking your Car – Avoid parking your car on or over piles of leaves. The exhaust systems on your car will ignite the dry leaves.
• Clear yard debris quickly – Do not allow these potential bonfires to stack up and dry out in your yard.
• Store firewood safely – Instead of stacking your firewood against your house, try to store these fuel sources at least 30′ from your home.

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