TRI-VALLEY \u2013 The California Fire Foundation (CFF) is urging California residents to protect their homes, families and communities by preparing early for possible wildfires this summer.<\/p>\n
The Sacramento-based nonprofit said last week that rising temperatures, dry vegetation and shrinking moisture levels are already increasing wildfire danger across much of the state and what was once considered a seasonal threat has now become a year-round reality for many California communities.<\/p>\n
With a warmer than average spring and below normal snowpack in the key areas of the Sierra Nevada range, CFF said the state is \u201clikely heading into a season where resources may be stretched thin and rapid initial attack will be critical. For the public, it is a reminder that wildfire preparedness cannot wait until smoke is already in the air.\u201d<\/p>\n
CFF recommends that residents make the first five feet around their homes, known as Zone 0, as fire-resistant as possible. That means keeping the area free of anything flammable, including mulch, firewood, wooden furniture and fences that connect directly to the home.<\/p>\n
Other recommendations include replacing mulch with gravel, pavers or concrete; regularly removing dead weeds, grass and debris and checking roofs and gutters; keeping tree branches trimmed back at least 10 feet from chimneys and stovepipes; replacing combustible fencing with fire-resistant materials; and moving boats, RVs, and vehicles away from structures during high fire danger periods.<\/p>\n
CFF said it is equally important to have a plan in case it\u2019s necessary to evacuate the area.<\/p>\n
Fires can move faster than expected, and conditions can change within minutes, the CFF said, and too often residents wait too long to leave because they are unsure where to go or believe the fire will not reach them.<\/p>\n
CFF said every household should have a five-minute evacuation plan, including a go-bag.<\/p>\n
That plan should address the needs of pets and pet supplies, important documents, medications and medical supplies, emergency contacts and meeting places, and multiple evacuation routes.<\/p>\n