5 Ways to Protect Phoenix Property From Active Brush Fire Season

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Phoenix Valley firefighters are preparing for an active brush fire season this year after all the heavy winter rain we had. In fact, recent strong winds are signaling to the Phoenix Fire Department that the start of brush fire season is approaching.

Washes and alleyways all around the Valley are seeing a lot more over-growth this year. When the sweltering heat dries all those shrubs up, these washes and alleyways now act as corridors that can carry a fire blocks away, leaving your Phoenix home or business property at risk.

SERVPRO of Phoenix all too often sees the devastation of losing a home or place of business to fire damage when, unfortunately they could have been prevented. We’ve come up with the top 5 ways you can protect your property from becoming a disaster.   

1. Eliminate Brush and Shrubbery Around Property

Dead pine needles, leaves and other dead plants serve as a kindling, like when you're attempting to start a fire. Eliminating them is the first thing you'll want to do. It is recommended that you create at least a five-foot barrier around the property that is free of any fire dangers. Use rocks instead of grass or keep your grass short and healthy.

2. Store Firewood Away From Building Structure

Keep firewood and other lumber away from the building structure. It's best to keep the wood in a fire resistant box or at least cover it with a tarp, keeping it a safe distance from the property at all times.

3. Keep Gutters Clean

When gutters aren't cleaned regularly, they fill up with dead leaves and pine needles which will easily spark especially during the hot summer days. Cleaning them regularly keeps them clean of any fire-worthy debris.

4. Check All Smoke Detectors

Be sure to check on the batteries and test the smoke detectors regularly. New smoke detectors on the market can even alert you on your phone to any fire dangers putting your property at risk so that you can take necessary precautions.

5. Always Choose Fire-resistant Roofing and Paneling

Although it may be a bit pricey, ridding your building structure of any wooden shingles or wood paneling on the outside of your property could save you overall from property fire damage.