Protect Your Home from Wildfire

Use this checklist to create defensible space around your property.

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• Remove all dead plants, grass, weeds, and overgrown brush.
• Clear away leaves, needles, and debris from roofs and rain gutters.
• Keep tree branches 10 feet away from chimney, roof, and other trees.
• Move firewood and fuel tanks 30 feet away from house.
• Remove all items from under deck. Do not use this space for storage.
• Fire harden your home. Install fine wire mesh over roof, eave, and foundation vents.
• Mow grass to a maximum of 4 inches. Mow before 10 a.m. and never on a hot, windy, or red flag day.
• Create vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees. Trim trees 10 feet from the ground and 6 feet from other plants.
• Create horizontal spacing between trees and shrubs.
• Plant fire-resistant native plants.

Visit your local fire department’s website for more information on defensible space requirements and evacuation procedures.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, also known as CAL FIRE, has more tips at readyforwildfire.com.
 

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and 1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature learning. The Park District receives more than 25 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor
(925) 482-7078
dmason@ebparks.org