Currently Douglas County is classed as High Fire Danger and there are presently
emergency burning restrictions in the blow down area to our south. We will be faced
with this fire danger until we green up. Standing dry grass equals rapidly moving fires
with large flame height. These fires move remarkable fast even with light winds. In
order to best defend your structures and property here is a list of preventive steps to
take from FEMA

Please be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Should a wild fire start you may be
approached by representatives of the Fire Dept or the Douglas County Sherriff's
Department and asked to evacuate. Being prepared will enable you to quickly and
efficiently evacuate the area to a safer spot.

Create a 30 to 100 foot safety zone around your home
Within this area, you can take steps to reduce potential exposure to flames and radiant
heat. Homes built in pine forests should have a minimum safety zone of 100 feet. If your
home sits on a steep slope, standard protective measures may not suffice. Contact your
local fire department or forestry office for additional information.

  • Rake leaves, dead limbs, and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation.
  • Remove leaves and rubbish from under structures.
  • Thin a 15-foot space between tree crowns, and remove limbs within 15 feet of
    the ground.
  • Remove dead branches that extend over the roof.
  • Prune tree branches and shrubs within 15 feet of a stovepipe or chimney outlet.
  • Ask the power company to clear branches from power lines.
  • Remove vines from the walls of the home.
  • Mow grass regularly.
  • Clear a 10-foot area around propane tanks and the barbecue. Place a screen
    over the grill -- use nonflammable material with mesh no coarser than onequarter
    inch.
  • Regularly dispose of newspapers and rubbish at an approved site. Follow local
    burning regulations.
  • Place stove, fireplace, and grill ashes in a metal bucket, soak in water for 2 days,
    then bury the cold ashes in mineral soil.

Here is a link to more information from FEMA
http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/wildfire/

Bob Zimmerman,
Battalion Chief TSFD