Our Mission: “Committed to excellence, service, and the protection of life and property in our community.” |
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Our Mission: “Committed to excellence, service, and the protection of life and property in our community.”
Our Mission: “Committed to excellence, service, and the protection of life and property in our community.” |
Contact UsBy Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention, Dale Way
Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue (TMFR) crews and area fire agencies have been working and training feverishly to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season. The increasingly hot and dry conditions, and lack of moisture, are all ingredients that should make Washoe County residents pause and consider how we can work together to prevent the threat of wildfires in our region. After all, nearly 90 percent of wildfires are caused by humans. Every Washoe County community resident has a role to play to reduce the threat of a fire from becoming a mega-fire, such as the Davis Fire last fall.
Please be mindful of outdoor activities that can spark fires. Avoid campfires or bonfires. Firepits should include a metal screen to prevent embers from escaping. Avoid target shooting, and off-roading without a spark arrestor. Any outdoor activities that require the use of tools with metal blades could be a hazard if a spark is created. Welding, grinding, or cutting metal and sharpening tools can throw sparks into dry vegetation igniting a fire. Always have a garden hose nearby.
And if you plan to be out in the wildland, be equipped with small hand tools and water in the event you accidentally spark a fire. Make sure you have an operating cell phone to report a fire or emergency and to ensure your safety if you need assistance.
It is never too late to prepare a buffer zone around your property clear of dry vegetation and combustible items that will go a long way to protect your home in the event of a wildfire. We call this defensible space.
There are three ways your home can be exposed to wildfire: direct flames from a wildfire or a burning adjacent structure; radiant heat from nearby burning plants or structures; and flying embers. Flying embers from a wildfire can destroy homes up to a mile away and are responsible for the destruction of most homes during a wildfire.
Taking the necessary measures to harden (prepare) your home can help increase its likelihood of survival when wildfire strikes.
The roof is the most vulnerable part of your home. Homes with wood or shingle roofs are at high risk of being destroyed during a wildfire. Block any spaces between roof decking and covering to prevent embers from catching. Remove accumulated vegetative debris from the roof.
Vents on homes create openings for flying embers. Cover all vent openings with 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch metal mesh. Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh because they can melt and burn. Use Ember and flame-resistant vents (WUI vents).
And keep rain gutters clear or enclose rain gutters to prevent accumulation of plant debris.
These are just some steps you can take to harden your home. Thank you for taking the time to review this article. More information on how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property during a wildfire can be found on our website at TMFPD.us. Thank you for allowing us to serve you. Be prepared, and be safe this summer.
