WILDFIRE: April is Wildfire Prevention and Education Month. Wildfire is the greatest natural disaster threat in southwestern Colorado. An increasing number of people are building homes in forested areas. Add to that the impacts of drought, insects and climate change and wildfire is an even more likely event.
Spring is the time to be proactive in preparing properties to lessen the impact or damage from wildfire. Two steps to take immediately include creating and maintaining a defensible space around structures and preparing the family for potential evacuation.
Other suggestions include:
* Properly thin and remove trees and shrubs within 30 feet of your home;
* Remove tree branches overhanging the roof;
* Clear roof gutters of leaves, branches and other debris;
* Trim grass and weeds to a low height;
* Store combustible and flammable items safely;
* Keep your chimney screens in place and in good condition;
* Ensure you have an outdoor water supply with a hose to reach all parts of the home;
* Place fire extinguishers in all buildings and be certain they work;
* Make sure your street and address signs are visible and readable;
* Keep tools such as rakes, shovels and hoes accessible in case they are needed;
* Discuss an evacuation plan, do a fire drill and map out meeting points ahead of time.
A home self-assessment, list of fire mitigation contractors, downloadable risk maps, fact sheets and brochures can be found at http://www.southwestcoloradofires.org/.
http://homesindurango.com/ / http://durangorealestate.biz/
Spring is the time to be proactive in preparing properties to lessen the impact or damage from wildfire. Two steps to take immediately include creating and maintaining a defensible space around structures and preparing the family for potential evacuation.
Other suggestions include:
* Properly thin and remove trees and shrubs within 30 feet of your home;
* Remove tree branches overhanging the roof;
* Clear roof gutters of leaves, branches and other debris;
* Trim grass and weeds to a low height;
* Store combustible and flammable items safely;
* Keep your chimney screens in place and in good condition;
* Ensure you have an outdoor water supply with a hose to reach all parts of the home;
* Place fire extinguishers in all buildings and be certain they work;
* Make sure your street and address signs are visible and readable;
* Keep tools such as rakes, shovels and hoes accessible in case they are needed;
* Discuss an evacuation plan, do a fire drill and map out meeting points ahead of time.
A home self-assessment, list of fire mitigation contractors, downloadable risk maps, fact sheets and brochures can be found at http://www.southwestcoloradofires.org/.
http://homesindurango.com/ / http://durangorealestate.biz/
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