DISASTER PLANNING

WILDFIRES

Florida is home to millions of residents who enjoy the state's beautiful scenery and warm climate. But few people realize that these qualities also create severe wildfire conditions. Each year, thousands of acres of wildland and many homes are destroyed by fires that can erupt at any time of the year from a variety of causes, including arson, lightning and debris burning. Adding to the fire hazard is the growing number of people living in new communities built in areas that were once wildland. This growth places even greater pressure on the state's wildland firefighters. As a result of this growth, fire protection becomes everyone's responsibility.

The Division of Forestry in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is you one stop source for fire dangers and burn permits.

 

 

Firewise Landscaping Zones

To create a firewise landscape, remember that the primary goal is fuel reduction. To this end, initiate the zone concept. Zone 1 is closest to the structure; Zones 2-4 move progressively further away.

• Zone 1. This well-irrigated area encircles the structure for at least 30' on all sides,providing space for fire suppression equipment in the event of an emergency.Plantings should be limited to carefully spaced fire resistant species.
• Zone 2. Fire resistant plant materials should be used here. Plants should be low-growing, and the irrigation system should extend into this section.
• Zone 3. Place low-growing plants and well-spaced trees in this area, remembering tokeep the volume of vegetation (fuel) low.
• Zone 4. This furthest zone from the structure is a natural area. Thin selectively here,and remove highly flammable vegetation.

Be sure to leave a minimum of 30' around the house to accommodate fire equipment, if necessary. Carefully space the trees you plant. Take out the “ladder fuels” — vegetation that serves as a link between grass and tree tops. It can carry fire to a structure or from a structure to vegetation. Give yourself added protection with “fuel breaks” like driveways, gravel walkways,and lawns.   More...

Wildland Fires ~ Are You Prepared?

Danger zones include all wooded, brush, and grassy areas — especially those in Kansas,Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, the Carolinas, Tennessee, California, Massachusetts, and the national forests of the western United States.   More...