The inherent fire protection of steel over wood is one of the biggest benefits in choosing a steel garage. However, you should still do everything in your power to protect your property and home from the threat of wildfire.
Feel the Burn
For around a week, the air across the southeastern United States has been heavy and hazy. The hint of smoke comes from wildfires that have been burning across Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Two have died and a state of emergency has been declared in many states. More than 30 large fires continue to burn, triggering respiratory issues and sending hundreds to the hospital. Unusually dry and windy conditions have contributed to the rapid spread of these fires, which have now burned more than 100,000 acres. While some have been human caused, others are still under investigation.
Due to the activity surrounding the subject, we decided to take a look into ways that you can help protect your home and property from these blazes. While a steel garage from our showroom may survive the fire, we cannot guarantee that your belongings inside will. Rather than living in fear of such fast-moving fires, take the time and effort now to protect your property from the unthinkable.
Preventing a Wildfire
In order to best combat and avoid a wildfire encroaching on your property, you must create defensible space. This is a zone around your house that will slow the fire down and maybe direct it away from your home. You have to think of your yard as a fuel source – follow these instructions within 30 feet of your home, 50 feet if you are in a heavily wooded area, or 100 feet if your home is on a hillside.
- Introduce more native vegetation.
- Space trees at least 10 feet apart.
- Remove dead or dying trees and shrubs.
- Keep trees and shrubs pruned – branches should be at least six feet off the ground and shrubs no taller than 18 inches high.
- Mow your lawn regularly and dispose promptly of cuttings and debris.
- Maintain an irrigation system.
- Clear your roof, gutters, and eaves of debris.
- Trim branches so that they do not extend over roof or near the chimney.
- Move firewood and storage tanks 50 feet from your home and clear an area of at least ten feet around them.
- Store flammables in approved metal safety cans.
- Do not connect wooden fencing directly to your home or shelter.
- Keep the grounds surrounding your home clean and free of leaves and pine needles.
Along with these tips for preventing a wildfire from reaching your home, you should also have an emergency plan prepared. Identify escape routes from your home and neighborhood, and designate an emergency meeting place for your family if you become separated.
An emergency kit should contain first aid supplies, a portable weather radio, basic tools (flashlight, gloves, batteries), clothing, blankets, medicine, baby items, extra keys and eyeglasses, cash/credit cards, and important documents (insurance policies).
Protect Yourself
Taking the proper measures to protect your home and property from wildfires can mean the difference between returning home and losing everything. Don’t take a chance and gamble on the weather. Maintaining your lawn, property, and surrounding areas is a vital step in keeping uncontained fires away from your home. Doing so now could make all the difference down the road.
Thousands of forest fires threaten lives and property across the United States every year. If you live in an area with a high risk of wildfire, a steel arch building is the obvious choice for the longevity of your structure. This fireproof investment will retain its strength and increase the value of your property for years to come. With our decades of experience, make Arch Buildings your first choice in home additions.
