Recent wildfires in many geographic regions emphasize the importance of creating landscapes that minimize the chance of fire jumping and improve fire safety. Though nothing can completely guarantee safety from fires, there are practical actions to undertake. A fire-safe landscape does not mean a landscape barren of vegetation. On the contrary, a property can still look beautiful with a selection of trees, shrubs and other plants. However, with advanced thought you can balance the design of a landscape with the risks involved to help reduce vulnerability.
Following are some simple strategies for firewise landscaping that can help protect homes and leave them more defensible against encroaching fires.
Thinking ‘lean, clean, and green’ for fire safety
Plant type is an important consideration. While all plants should be considered flammable, some are more susceptible than others. Junipers are an example that should not be planted in wildfire-prone areas. Be sure to plan landscapes to minimize more flammable vegetation like some conifers or eucalyptus species. Additionally, avoid accumulation of dead vegetation, brown grass, or woodpiles. For the plants in your landscape, keep them healthy and green. Taking these steps significantly improves fire safety. Immediate removal of dead trees is also critical.
Maintain a defensible space around structures
In addition to selecting appropriate plant material, space is another critical factor. There should be ample space between individual plants and plant clusters. Further, remove branches that overhang structures and maintain a low density of plants within 30 feet of structures. This creates a defensible space and improves the ability to protect nearby structures. It also reduces the likelihood of fire spreading from the landscape to the home. Remember to also maintain driveway clearance. Fire trucks and other emergency equipment must have access to the property to defend it.
Prevent ground fires from moving into tree canopies
Low-density plantings near structures and pruning to raise tree canopies over grass or other ground covers reduces the chances that a low-burning ground fire becomes a more dangerous canopy fire. Increase spacing on slopes, where it is easier for fire to jump into the tree canopy.
Fire can move very quickly from wildlands to landscapes, but following these guidelines will improve defense capabilities and reduce the potential for disaster. Additional information on preparing for wildfires is also available from CalFire.
