15 Simple Steps to Reduce Your Fire Risk

Now is the greatest fire risk in history. If you live, work or play in a forest community, your thoughts should not be based on “if a fire happens” but on “when a fire happens.” Fire will visit you and your community. It’s inevitable.

A house in a thicket of doghair pine before thinning. Photo by New Mexico Division of Forestry.”
House is visible after thinning to a “Firewise” standard. Photo courtesy of New Mexico Division of Forestry

That’s why fire vigilance should be on your mind every day. There are simple steps you can take to protect your home, office and community. Set an example for your neighbors. Encourage them to take these same steps. Work together to preserve and protect the forests, communities and homes you hold dear.

  • Create a minimum 10-foot clear space around all structures; this includes clearing out trees and bushes.
  • Leave only fire-resistant and irrigated plants close to structures. Fire-resistive plants include hardwoods and those with fine leaves. For specific plant recommendations, visit this site.
  • Thin trees located 10-30 feet from structures so crowns are separated; also prune up 10 feet from the ground.
  • Thin trees located 30-100 feet from structures so that crowns are separated.
  • If any large trees are left close to structures, prune to 10 feet above the roof eave
  • Remove big logs and heavy debris from forest floor located 30-100’ from structures.
  • Remove or break up the continuity of any “Ladder Fuels” – a combination of grass, brush and small trees under or near a large tree. Fire uses these smaller sources in combination to climb to the larger trees.
  • Maintain, irrigate and mow grass and ground vegetation.
  • Remove pine needles, leaves and debris from roof and gutters.
  • Ensure that pine needles and forest litter are no more than 1 inch thick on the ground.
  • Store wood piles and building materials at least 30 feet from structures.
  • Replace shake roofs with shingle or metal.
  • Screen all attic and soffit vents with 1/8-inch mesh.
  • Seal all cracks or crevices that could allow embers access to interior.
  • Ensure street signs and your address are reflective and visible from road.

    • Visit www.firewise.org or www.azsf.az.gov for more valuable tips and information.