 The above infographic details ways residents can protect their homes and help stop the spread of wildfire by following steps such as removing flammable materials from around the perimeter of the home, keeping roofs and gutters clear of dead leaves and pine needles, trimming tree limbs to 10 feet above the ground and more. (Infographic courtesy of Solano County Department of Resource Management and Cal Fire)
Wildfire Preparedness and Upcoming Pleasants Valley Fire Safe Council Meeting
With another wildfire season upon us, it is important to consider whether your home or rural property is ready.
This means your property has elements of defensible space, fire resistant landscaping and/or home hardening components such as fire and ember resistant construction materials. While it may sound daunting at first, there are relatively easy steps you can take to protect your property and loved ones the next time a wildfire impacts our community.
The first easy step is to sign up for emergency notifications at AlertSolano. These alerts can come to you via your cell phone, e-mail or landline and is a great tool to have when emergency personnel need to get information to the public about a possible evacuation or mandatory evacuation. An evacuation plan is also an essential part of being fire ready. This can include knowing where to go and having a go-bag or other similar items ready in case you, and even your pets or livestock, must leave in a hurry. Simple home improvements can also increase your chances of surviving the next disaster. Ember resistant construction materials and roof materials with a Class A fire rating are recommended, as well as taking care to secure ducts and attic vents that meet new ember and flame-resistant requirements. This can go a long way to protecting your home. And of course, defensible space is critical. Remove combustible material from the first five feet from around your home and remove any dead vegetation from 30 feet from your home. Remember, do not use a mower or weed eater during Red Flag or extreme heat events.
Another great way to become fire ready is to get involved with your local fire safe council or consider starting one. Solano County has begun the process to create a countywide Fire Safe Council in partnership with the county Office of Emergency Services and the Solano Resource Conservation District. This effort will enhance and support local Fire Safe Councils, such as those that have already formed in Pleasants Valley and Green Valley.
The Pleasants Valley Fire Safe Council will host its second monthly meeting at 6 p.m., Monday, July 12 at Soul Food Farm, 6046 Pleasants Valley Road, Vacaville. This is a great opportunity for residents to meet their neighbors, get signed up on a “phone tree,” share ideas and prepare for the ongoing wildfire season. For more information, contact Rose Loveall at roseloveall@morningsunherbfarm.com, or call 707-888-5013.
For more information and tips to keep your home safe in a wildfire, visit www.solanocounty.com/GetReadySolano.
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Since 2003, Supervisor John M. Vasquez has had the privilege to represent the 4th Supervisorial District covering Northern Solano County. The district includes portions of Vacaville and Dixon. |
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