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Tampa, FL — The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) wants to help Floridians protect their homes from wildfires. Several brushfires in Polk County kicked off the 2001 season early, and the continued threat for Central Florida remains severe. Considering rainfall deficits, low rainfall expectations, and winter freezes, Florida’s Division of Forestry says fire potential will be high unless a prolonged period of rainfall develops.
Fire season typically runs year-round in Florida, but the focus is from January to late June. By preparing now, the IBHS says property owners in threatened areas can prepare their homes by taking steps to protect against damage.
“Residents can safeguard their property to better withstand the threat of wildfire with a little hard work over a weekend, “ said IBHS President and CEO Harvey Ryland. “No home is fireproof, but by taking the necessary precautions, your home has a better chance of surviving such a catastrophe.”
If you live in an area subject to wildfires, IBHS recommends the following actions to protect your home:
GIVE YOUR HOME A SURVIVABLE SPACE
Create a zone around your house that will slow the wildfire down and possibly direct it around your home. To do this, you must view your yard as a fuel source. Fire will burn only if fuel is present. Fuel can be your landscaping, woodpiles, decks, etc. To create your survivable space, take the following steps within 30 feet of your home, or 50 feet if you live in a heavily wooded area:
Keep trees and shrubs pruned. Branches on taller trees should be a minimum of 6 feet from the ground.
Space trees at least 10 feet apart.
Remove dead leaves and branches, especially around the roof and chimney.
Mow your lawn regularly and dispose promptly of cuttings and debris.
Clear your roof, gutters and eaves of debris.
Store flammable liquids properly.
BUILD OR RETROFIT YOUR HOME WITH NON-FLAMMABLE MATERIALS
If the wildfire gets to the house, another line of defense is the type of materials used on your home’s exterior. Use the following guidelines to best protect your home:
Use only non-combustible roofing products.
Enclose and screen eaves, fascias, soffits and sub floor vents using ¼” non-combustible screening.
Install spark arresters in chimneys.
Enclose decks with fire-resistant materials.
Cover exterior walls with fire resistant materials like stucco, stone, or brick. (Vinyl siding can melt and is not recommended).
Use double paned or tempered glass for all exterior windows.
A well prepared home has the greatest chance of surviving a wildfire. These are just a few of the recommended design criteria. For more information, contact IBHS at (813) 286-3400 x241.
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