Business & Community Development
Continued...Got Defensible Space?
Once wildflowers dry out and turn brown, remove them. You also need to create a separation between shrubs and trees and between tree branches and lower growing plants. When there is no underlying layer of vegetation present, remove lower tree branches to a height of at least 2 feet above ground. This will prevent burning needles and twigs lying on the ground from igniting the tree.
You should have a “lean, clean and green” area extending for at least 30 feet from the house. The purpose of this area is twofold: First, it eliminates easily ignitable fuels or “kindling” near the house. In the event that a burning ember landed near your home, it would be unable to start a fire. Second, the area keeps fire intensity low if a fire does ignite near the house. Should a fire start within that 30 feet, the fire would not be able to generate enough heat for a long enough period of time to ignite the house.
To have a “lean, clean and green” area, you don’t have to have bad landscaping. A good defensible space can be nice looking, and if it is just bare soil, the soil can erode faster. The “lean, clean, and green” area is generally your basic landscaping. Just remember that old or dried bushes, shrubs, and even flower beds should be removed. Select plants that are less flammable. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a fire proof plant, but some plants do not ignite as easily or burn as hot as other plants. Shorter plants are better than taller plants, and plants that stay green all the time and are less woody are also better.
Once you have a good defensible space around your home, the last step is maintenance. Flammable vegetation needs to be removed and disposed of on a regular basis. Before each fire season and when it is especially hot and dry, reevaluate your property using the tips above.
If you have any questions defensible space around your home, please contact Greater Brighton Fire at 303-659-4101.