By Charlotte Herdliska, Corona de Tucson Fire Marshal

As you may already know, Arizona grass fires tend to be very hot and fast burning. With fire season upon us again, I am asking the Vail Voice to re-print this article.

The easiest way to beat fires is to create a fire break in front of the fire.  A fire break is a clear space where there is no grass (or very short grass) or brush to burn. This deprives the fire of fuel, reduces flame length, and slows the growth of the fire.

Here are a few things you can do to help save your property:

• Clear low hanging branches. Trim your trees so you have a 4-5 foot clearance from the ground.
• Clean out debris in your rain gutters. One small ember can ignite leaf litter in your gutters.
• Remove flammable materials (firewood stacks, propane tanks) within 30 feet of your home’s foundations and outbuildings, including garages and sheds. If it can catch fire, don’t let it touch your house, deck or porch.
• Keep your roof clean of debris. Flat roofs can have wind-blown debris in the corners.
• Remove combustibles from your porch, deck or patio: chairs, table, rugs, cushions, anything that will burn.
• Have an evacuation plan, review your route out, and talk to your neighbors.

Keep your home and property safe but remember, your safety comes first!

Is your home safe from wildfire?

Please contact your local Fire Department for information on Firewise Communities and a FREE Firewise property survey.

Corona de Tucson Fire: FM Charlotte Herdliska: 520-762-9370    cherdliska@coronafire.org

Rincon Valley Fire: 520- 647-3760