Now is the time to get your home and yard prepared for fire season! Spring is just around the corner in the Rogue Valley, and residents should be taking steps to protect their homes from potential wildfires this summer.
Begin with your home and the area immediately surrounding it:
► Remove dead or dry leaves and pine needles from your yard, roof and rain gutters.
► Remove vegetation and items that could catch fire from around your home and under your decks.
► Relocate wood piles at least 50' from structures unless they are enclosed in a fire-resistant structure.
► Remove or prune flammable plants and shrubs near windows.
► Remove any branches that hang over your roof, and keep dead branches at least 10' away from your chimney.
Next, address your yard and beyond:
► Cut or mow grass to a maximum height of 4".
► Remove all tree branches at least 6' from the ground.
► If you plant additional trees or shrubs, consider using fire-resistant varieties.
Remember, we live in a fire-prone area, and fire agencies can't solve the problem alone. Taking simple steps now - before a fire starts - is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your neighbors!