Firewise Landscaping                    Defensible Space Detail

Nearly every state has been devastated by wildfires in the last century.  More than 140,000 wildfires occur on average each year.  Since 1990, more than 900 homes have been destroyed each year by wildfires.

So, what can you do to protect yourself, your home, and your property from wildfires?  This UtahFireInfo.gov Fire Prevention site will help you understand why your home is at risk and what you can do to reduce the risk to your home and property.

THE DEFENSIBLE SPACE CHECKLIST

1. Clean roof surfaces and gutters of pine needles, leaves, branches, etc., regularly to avoid accumulation of flammable materials. 
2. Remove portions of any tree extending within 10 feet of the flue opening of any stove or chimney. 
3. Maintain a screen constructed of non-flammable material over the flue opening of every chimney or stovepipe. Mesh openings of the screen should not exceed 1/2 inch. 
4. Remove branches from trees to height of 15 feet. 
5. Dispose of stove or fireplace ashes and charcoal briquettes only after soaking them in a metal pail of water. 
6. Store gasoline in an approved safety can away from occupied buildings. 
7. Propane tanks should be far enough away from buildings for valves to be shut off in case of fire. 
8. Keep area clear of flammable vegetation. 
9. All combustibles such as firewood, picnic tables, boats, etc. should be kept away from structures. 
10. Garden hose should be connected to outlet. 
11. Addressing should be indicated at all intersections and on structures. 
12. All roads and driveways should be at least 16 feet in width. 
13. Have fire tools handy such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and bucket for water. 
14. Each home should have at least two different entrance and exit routes.