Preventing Fire Damage
go.ncsu.edu/readext?437148

Image by John McColgan CC-BY-NC
Not all fire is bad. Prescribed burning is a land treatment, used under controlled conditions, to accomplish natural resource management objectives. It is a safe way to apply a natural process, ensure ecosystem health, and reduce wildfire risk. Its use reduces the potential for destructive wildfires and thus maintains long-term air quality.
Plan ahead. Before a wildfire threatens your area…
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Image by USDA CC-BY
Create a defensible space in the area within 200 feet of your home by reducing the amount of flammable vegetation and material and increasing the water content of what remains.
- Remove leaves from gutters, eaves, porches, and decks.
- Clear away dead plant material within 10 feet of the house.
- Remove branches that are 10 feet or less from the ground.
- Keep your lawn well-watered and in good health. If it is brown, mow it close to the ground to reduce fuel for wildfire.
- Dispose of debris and lawn cuttings quickly to reduce fuel for a fire.
- Learn more at www.firewise.org.
Prevent new fires by eliminating potential ignition sources. Do not burn leaves.
Resources
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Image by Lotus R CC-BY-SA
Wildfire safety tips: Keep homes safe.
- Wildfire Risk Assessment Guide for Homeowners in the Southern United States
- NC Guide for Protecting Homes from Wildfire: Create a defensible space around your home using
- Firewise Landscaping in North Carolina: Identify recommended plants, plant placement, and maintenance to make your home less vulnerable
- Firewise Guide to Landscape and Construction: A Guide for Protecting Homes from Wildfire
- Low Flammability Plants
- Selecting and Maintaining Firewise Plants for Landscaping
- Quick Guide to Firewise Shrubs
- Wildfires Near Me: Create an Account to determine if your area is in danger or follow information about a specific fire
- North Carolina Forest Service Contacts
- Wildland Fire in the Southeast: National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy
- Fire Adapted Communities
- Fire in the Wildland-Urban Interface: Selecting and Maintaining Firewise Plants for Landscaping