Clearing vegetation decreases fire risk

OLYMPIA -  In a bid to safeguard homes and communities from the looming threat of wildfires, Washington residents are being encouraged to clear dead vegetation from their surroundings. The call to action comes after Washington State fire agencies reported 6,536 fires caused by natural vegetation last year, resulting in a staggering financial loss of over 3 million dollars.

It's a well-documented fact that dead and dry vegetation around homes significantly escalates the risk of fires. However, taking proactive steps to eliminate these hazards can substantially increase the survivability of your home during a wildfire.

The State Fire Marshal's Office has outlined a series of measures for residents to bolster their safety and reduce the likelihood of a fire disaster:

- Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Regularly remove leaves, pine needles, and other flammable materials from roofs and gutters. Also, ensure that decks are clear of any debris, as this helps prevent embers from igniting your home.

- Clear a Five-Foot Zone: Remove dead vegetation within a five-foot radius around your home. This creates a critical buffer zone that can impede the progression of wildfires.

- Pruning Tree Limbs: Keep tree limbs pruned so that the lowest branches are elevated six to ten feet above the ground. This minimizes the chances of ground-level fires climbing up into the trees.

- Fuel Reduction: Dispose of branches, weeds, leaves, and grass clippings to reduce the potential fuel for a fire. Also, eliminate plants containing resins, oils, and waxes, as these can be highly flammable.

- Mulch Alternatives: Opt for crushed stone or gravel as landscaping mulch rather than flammable materials, such as wood chips or bark.

- Sustained Maintenance: After clearing, it's essential to maintain your landscape in good condition to ensure continued fire safety.

- Distance Building Materials: Store construction materials and woodpiles at least 30 feet from your home and other outbuildings. This precautionary measure significantly decreases the risk of a fire spreading to these structures.

By adhering to these recommendations, Washington residents can make cost-effective landscaping changes that could save their homes and protect their families. As the state strives to mitigate the impact of wildfires, this proactive approach is a crucial step in the right direction to ensure the safety of our communities.