As the weather begins to warm in earnest, it is time to prepare yards for wildfire season. CTV News Edmonton's Miriam Valdes-Carletti reports on essential steps to protect your property.
Start with a Clean Slate
Remove dead vegetation, dry leaves, and pine needles from your yard. These materials act as fuel for fires. Clear gutters and roofs of debris to prevent embers from igniting your home.
Create Defensible Space
Maintain a buffer zone of at least 1.5 meters around your house. Use non-flammable materials like gravel or stone instead of mulch. Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or are within 2 meters of the ground.
Choose Fire-Resistant Plants
Opt for plants with high moisture content, such as succulents, lavender, and sage. Avoid highly flammable species like juniper, pine, and ornamental grasses. Keep lawns well-watered and mowed short.
Manage Combustible Materials
Store firewood, propane tanks, and other flammable items at least 10 meters away from structures. Move wooden fences and decks away from the house if possible, or treat them with fire-retardant chemicals.
Maintain Access for Firefighters
Ensure your address is clearly visible from the street. Keep driveways wide enough for emergency vehicles and remove overhanging branches that could block access.
By taking these steps now, you can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire damage to your home and property.
