How to Avoid Wildland Fires During the Summer

Summer is approaching, which in Scottsdale’s dry climate means increased risk of wild land fires. While all of this warm weather allows Desert Mountain residents to enjoy more time outdoors, not taking the proper precautions can put your home at risk. Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep your home and family safe.

First, it is important to build a defensible fire space around your home. This is a well-maintained area of live vegetation that prevents wild land fires from spreading to inhabited structures. According to the Scottsdale Fire Department, a defensible fire space should only contain small brush, cacti and trees.

To create a defensible fire space, clear and maintain a 15-foot zone around your home. Heavy landscaping with dead or fallen trees, overgrown bushes or perennial grasses will increase your home’s risk. Thin out dead branches and trim branches that are touching the ground. For the best protection against wild land fires, you may want to create an additional 15-foot buffer, removing any perennial grasses in this zone.

In addition, you can protect your home by regularly checking the roof and eaves for leaves and other dry, flammable debris.

As always, it is important to have a Wildfire Action Plan, so you and your family are prepared in case of an emergency. It is also advised that you stock an emergency supply kit that includes first aid, water, non-perishable foods, a flashlight, family documents and any other essential items.

Living in the Sonoran Desert can be a truly unbeatable experience as long as you understand and respect your surroundings. If you are interested in viewing any Desert Mountain homes for sale, please contact me to schedule an appointment.

 

Carmen Brodeur JD
Realtor
Trillium Properties, LLC
9825 E Bell Road, Suite 120, Scottsdale AZ 85255
Cell (602) 791-0536
Carmen@TopScottsdaleHomes.com
www.DesertMountainHomesOnline.com