ALL IT TAKES IS ONE SPARK

Research shows the majority of homes that ignite during a wildfire are due to embers and small flames. Homeowners, however, can reduce this risk, especially by focusing on efforts immediately around the home. Fortunately, there is a program that guides homeowners into how to prepare and protect their homes. The program is called Firewise USA and is administered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). According to the NFPA, homeowners should consider the condition of the home and everything around it, up to 200’ from the foundation. “This is called the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ).” Below are tips from NFPA for steps homeowners can take.

• Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles that could catch embers.

• Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration.

• Reduce embers that could pass through vents in the eaves by installing 1/8 inch metal mesh screening.

• Clean debris from exterior attic vents and install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers.

• Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows Screen or boxin areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.

• Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors – mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles – anything that can burn. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches.

While individuals can take such steps to protect their home, neighbors can also come together to protect their neighborhood and work towards becoming a Firewise USA site. To do so entails some of the following steps:

• Form a board/committee that’s comprised of residents and other applicable wildfire stakeholders. Consider inviting the local fire department, state forestry agency, elected officials, emergency manager, and if applicable the property management company to participate.

• Obtain a written wildfire risk assessment from your state forestry agency or fire department. The assessment should be a communitywide view that identifies areas of successful wildfire risk reduction and areas where improvements could be made.

• Your board/committee will develop an action plan - a prioritized list of risk reduction projects/investments for the participating site, along with suggested homeowner actions and education activities that participants will strive to complete annually, or over a period of multiple years. Action plans should be updated at a minimum of at least every three years.

• Host an outreach event and work with neighbors on addressing items in the action plan.

There are more than 1500 Firewise sites across the nation. For more information about the Firewise program, please visit https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Firecauses-and-risks/Wildfire/Fire...

Locally, you may also get more information from the City’s Emergency Management Department 512-858-4725 or from North Hays County Fire Rescue 512-894-0704.