IT’S TIME TO PREPARE FOR WILDFIRE
Residents Urged to Clear Defensible Space Ahead of Peak Fire Season
May 27, 2012 (Jamul) – On May 22, Cal Fire and County officials, including County Supervisor Dianne Jacob, gave a tour with the homeowners of a correctly cleared space around a Jamul home. With vegetation drying out and summer drawing near now is the best time to make sure homes are protected by 100 feet of defensible space. Cal Fire Chief, Thom Porter led the tour and provided a map of high-risk areas that have not burned recently.
Memorial Day weekend presents homeowners a little extra time to get out in their yards and work on creating the 100 feet of defensible space required by state and county law. It’s just the right time to prepare—before summer heats up and dried out vegetation around the home poses a daily fire risk. Every year, homeowners spark fires when they use power tools in the heat of summer to trim dried out plants. Waiting only makes cutting and pruning more dangerous.
Almost every jurisdiction requires homeowners to clear dry brush from around a residence; homeowners should check with their local fire departments for regulations specific to their communities. Creating defensible space protects a home while providing a safe area for firefighters. Residents can take steps such as mowing and properly maintaining lawn and weeds, pruning or removing ignitable trees and shrubs, stacking firewood away from the home and making the home’s address visible to emergency vehicles.