Home & Ranch Fire Safety Tips
Courtesy of My Fox Colorado Channel 31 Web site
DENVER - Many areas in Colorado are dry and ready to burn. Despite firefighters’ best efforts, a property that lacks emergency access may be lost if a wildfire occurs. Firefighters are racing against time when trying to protect property and stay out of harms way. In situations like this, details are critical.
As a first step in protecting your property, community and surrounding natural resources, the Colorado State Forest Service recommends that you clearly mark your property by printing visible house numbers and street names on fire-resistant signs. Both are vital for firefighters in their efforts to locate and protect homes.
Streets should be wide enough to accommodate emergency vehicles arriving in one direction, while homeowners in their vehicles are fleeing the scene.
Turnouts for passing on narrow mountain roads can help alleviate congestion. Every bridge should offer ample support for the size and weight of a fire truck and long driveways should have a space large enough to accommodate emergency vehicles that may need to turn around.
If you live in the wild land-urban interface, don’t be caught by surprise. Assess your property and emergency routes to your home. Streets in and out of your property should be at least 20 feet wide to allow enough space for two lanes of traffic. Obstacles such as narrow streets, sharp curves and long, steep driveways may delay the arrival of firefighting equipment and cost you your home.
For more information about how to ensure access to your home, visit www.firewise.org or contact your local fire department regarding questions on road construction and emergency vehicle requirements.
When conditions are favorable for a wildfire to start, you need to take the time to ensure our own property is ready to protect. Here are some helpful tips to consider.
- Mow any dry grass around your house and outbuildings.
- Mow around any improvements you will want to save, fences, wells etc.
- Check all of your farming equipment, are mufflers or spark arresters in good working order.
- Check for any chaff or other debris packed in areas that will be subject to high heat like mufflers and exhaust systems.
- Be sure to clean up any oil or fuel spills on equipment.
- Be sure your equipment is well lubricated; prevent dry parts from causing sparks or hot debris from falling to dry grasses.
|
