City of Richland, WA
Home Emergency MenuWildfires
LIGHTNING IGNITES SAGEBRUSH. DRAGGING CHAIN SPARKS A ROADSIDE FIRE. KIDS PLAYING WITH FIREWORKS LIGHT UP A HILLSIDE.
We live in an area that sees many wildfires each year. Dry Brush and strong winds can turn a small fire into a serious threat in no time. There are ways to prepare now and make your home more fire safe.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE FIRE SAFE BEFORE A WILDFIRE?CREATE DEFENSIBLE SPACE AROUND YOUR HOME.
- Create a 30 - 100 ft safety zone around your home.
- Clear all flammable vegetation. Rake leaves and twigs. Clear dead tree limbs.
- Remove tree limbs within 15 ft of the ground.
- Mow grass regularly.
- Have a garden hose long enough to reach any area of the home.
- Clear a 10 ft area around propane tanks and the barbecue.
WHAT CAN YOU DO WHEN A WILDFIRE THREATENS YOUR HOME?
- Listen to a battery-powered radio for updates.
- Back your car into the garage or in an open space facing the direction of escape.
- If asked to evacuate, lock your home and tell someone where you're going.
- If you have time, close windows, vents and doors and shut off all utilities.
You can find more information on preparing for wildfires here.
Taking just a few steps now can make sure you and your family are ready when disaster strikes.