AUSTIN, Texas \u2014 As strong winds and dry conditions continue to rattle Central Texas, the Austin Fire Department has created a tool to help mitigate the risk of wildfires around your home or property.<\/p>\n
The Do It Yourself Structure Ignition Zone Evaluation is a guide on the three different zones around a property and explains how to make small adjustments to prevent a wildfire from starting.<\/p>\n
We would all appreciate a spring break from these high winds! Until that happens, wildfire risk remains high.<\/p>\n
Harden your property against risk with the free Austin Fire DIY tool that provides guidance on what to do right now to protect your property: https:\/\/t.co\/ouPLgp9idM<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/BImytYlHl4<\/a><\/p>\n \u2014 Austin Fire Dept (@austinfiredept) March 16, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n The three zones include the immediate, noncombustible zone located 0-5 feet from a structure; the intermediate zone 5-30 feet from a structure; and the extended zone 30-100 feet from a structure.\u00a0<\/p>\n The immediate zone \u2014 which extends both horizontally and vertically \u2014 acts as a buffer to help prevent embers from getting near flammable materials or one\u2019s property. During high fire danger days, Austin Fire recommends moving any items within the immediate zone at least 5 feet away from one\u2019s property, or store them in a closed structure.<\/p>\n Replacing combustible mulch with noncombustible materials like gravel, pavers or concrete and removing dead vegetation and trimming trees can also help mitigate risks.<\/p>\n Outside of that zone, it\u2019s recommended to trim grass to 4 inches or less and store wood piles and any liquid propane gas or fuel tanks at least 30 feet from a property. Vertically, roofs and rain gutters should remain clear of debris.<\/p>\n Austin Fire is also offering a DIY size evaluation form for people to conduct their own size evaluations for their property and submit to AFD Wildfire here<\/a>.<\/p>\n See the full DIY Structure Ignition Zone Evaluation guide here:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n