Have you done everything possible to increase the chance that you, your loved ones and your home will survive a fire?
Even some relatively simple things you can do will increase this chance.
Every residence or business should have an address visible to first responders.
If you don’t have one, you can call 830-868-4266 to get one.
Any vegetation overhanging roofs should be cleared away - preferably at least 15 feet from the roof. All debris on the roof and rain gutters should be cleared off routinely.
Fill in gaps in siding or trim with caulk. This will prevent embers from getting lodged in crevices and starting a fire.
Balconies or decks should be enclosed underneath with wire mesh no larger than 1/8th inch openings which will prevent embers from blowing under them. Any vents (attic, foundation and eaves) or overhangs, should be enclosed with this same wire mesh. If you can’t do this soon, even cleaning out the debris of dried plant materials, wood piles or flammable materials from under the deck will improve your situation.
Remove plant debris from between the deckboard gaps and on the deck.
Consider storing more combustible deck items in the garage when you are away, or at least off the deck if it is a wooden one and attached to the house.
Make sure you move the firewood away from the house at least 30 feet. Since fire travels faster uphill, it needs to be further away if you have to put it downhill from you.
Ideally, no vegetation should be within 3-5 feet of the structure, but if it is, it should be short, well-watered, or high in moisture content, like succulents.
Replace combustible mulch such as pine needles or bark with less combustible mulch such as decomposed organic compost or inert inorganic mulches.
If you would like a Firewise Trained Master Gardener to come speak to your group whether it is a club, class, or even a small group of interested friends, we would welcome the opportunity to make this a safer community. Please contact the Texas Agrilife Extension Office at 830-868-7167.
Our hearts go out to the families of the 19 first responders of the Granite Mountain Hotshots based in Prescott Arizona who lost their lives in the line of service.
More from Columns.