How to Protect Your Property from Drought and Wildfires This Summer
Amid a burn ban and drought conditions, flames were dangerously approaching residential areas in St. Lucie last Monday.
These issues won’t disappear with just a little rain in the forecast.
Flames from a wildfire came alarmingly close to homes in St. Lucie County last Monday.
The St. Lucie County Fire District received several calls shortly after 1 p.m. on Monday about a wildfire near Northwest Dowell Court.
“It was an area of land between residential lots with heavy fuel,” said Captain Andrés Elizondo, fire chief for St. Lucie County. “Crews did a great job positioning themselves between the structures and protecting them while extinguishing the fire.”
The incident comes amid severe drought and a burn ban in St. Lucie County. These issues won’t disappear with just a little rain in the forecast.
That’s why we’re sharing these recommendations to protect your property from drought and wildfires this summer.
Drought and wildfires are becoming increasingly common in the summer, posing a significant threat to properties.
Before Drought and Wildfire Season Arrives:
- Create an action plan: Gather your family and develop an evacuation plan in case of a fire. Set meeting points and ensure everyone knows the plan.
- Clear brush and dry vegetation: Remove brush, dry leaves, and branches from around your home. This will create a defensible space that can help slow the spread of fire.
- Establish a firebreak: A firebreak is a vegetation-free area surrounding your home. It can be a zone of gravel, dirt, or rock.
- Keep your roof and chimneys clean: Sparks from the roof or chimney can start a fire. Make sure they are clean and in good condition.
- Have a plan for your pets: In case of evacuation, have a plan to take your pets with you or arrange for someone to care for them in your absence.
During Drought and Wildfire Season:
- Stay informed: Follow local news and alerts about wildfires.
- Have an emergency kit ready: Your emergency kit should include water, food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and batteries.
- Close windows and doors: This will help prevent smoke and ash from entering your home.
- Turn off lights and appliances: This will help prevent electrical shorts that could start a fire.
- Use a generator safely: If using a generator, make sure to do so outdoors and away from windows.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking in dry or vegetated areas is extremely dangerous.
- Do not use fireworks: Sparks from fireworks can start a fire.
Remember:
- Prevention is key: Taking steps to protect your property before drought and wildfire season arrives can make a difference.
- Stay alert: Being informed and prepared will help you respond quickly and safely in case of a wildfire.
- Follow authorities’ instructions: Obey evacuation orders and instructions from firefighters and other emergency officials.
Additional Resources:
- Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov/
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): https://www.nfpa.org/en
- Cal Fire: https://www.fire.ca.gov/
Protecting your property from drought and wildfires is essential for the safety of your home and family.
