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FireWise
Program
What is FireWise?
FireWise is a wildfire prevention and education program
funded in cooperation with the United States Forest Service, Bureau of Land
Management, Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Indian Affairs. In
Washington state, the program is administered through the
Washington State Department
of Natural Resources (DNR).
Overview of Our Program:
Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue has
entered into an agreement with the
WA State Department of Natural
Resources for the FireWise Program. The FireWise crews meet with the
interested homeowner to assess the wildfire risk level of their home. If
warranted, they will then prepare complete plans that provide defensible space
to structures and access for firefighting apparatus. When the plans are
approved, fuel modification work as specified in the plans is conducted in
cooperation with the homeowner. Any and all vegetative material cut or removed
is either to be chipped and spread on site as directed by the homeowner or
chipped and hauled away by the FireWise crews. This program also provides
seasonal wildland firefighters for the local area.
What is Defensible Space?
A 30-foot cleared area
greatly reduces the chance of the home catching fire in the event of a wildland
fire. In addition, shrubbery, grass and trees can be trimmed back or removed to
hinder the advance of a fire. Crews create "defensible space" around homes so
that, in the event of a wildfire, flames will be less likely to come into
contact with buildings and other protected structures.
FireWise Tips:
1.
Keep a clearing of at least
30 feet around your house for fire fighting equipment.
2. Space the trees you plant carefully.
3. Remove "ladder fuels". They link the grasses and the tree tops.
4. Create "fuelbreak" (driveways, gravel walkways, or lawns).
5. Maintain your irrigation system regularly.
6. Prune tree limbs so the lowest is between 6' - 10' from the ground.
7. Remove leaf clutter from your roof and yard.
8. Mow regularly.
9. Remove dead or overhanging branches.
10. Store firewood away from your house.
11. Refuel garden equipment carefully.
12. Maintain garden equipment regularly.
13. If you smoke, use your ashtray.
14. Store and use flammable liquids properly.
15. Dispose of cuttings and debris promptly, according to local regulations.
16. Observe local regulations regarding vegetative clearances and fire safety
equipment requirements.
17. Check your hose to be sure it is in good repair.
18. Don't keep combustible materials under decks or elevated porches.
19. Make trellises of non-flammable metal.
20. Have at least two ground-level doors as safety exits.
21. Keep at least two means of escape (either a door/window) in each room.
22. Mark your driveway and access roads clearly.
23. Keep ample turnaround space near your house for fire equipment.
24. Prevent sparks from entering your house by covering vents with wire mesh no
larger than 1/8".
25. When possible, use construction materials that are fire-resistant or
non-combustible.
Where Can I Get More Information?
Visit
www.firewise.org or call 1.866.807.9491.
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