Firefighter safety is a top priority. Crews have a lookout who is responsible for watching the fire’s behavior and anticipating dangerous situations. Safety zones are large areas where crews can move to if they are in danger. A safety zone can be a large clearing or a previously burned area. Firefighters wear fire-resistant clothing and carry special gear such as a fire shelter that protects them in times of danger. Computers can model fire behavior, provide geographic information and satellite imagery that can help to keep firefighters safe.
Fire Precaution and Prevention
The best way to prevent wildfires is to be educated and be aware. Use common sense and follow these basic rules:
Know your county’s burning regulations for the outdoors.
Smoke with at least a 3-foot clearing around you and put cigarettes out completely; use an ashtray.
Don’t park vehicles on dry grass.
Have a clearing of at least 30 feet around your home. This is called “defensible space”.
Create fuel breaks around your home such as driveways, lawns, or gravel walkways.
Keep leaf clutter cleaned up around the yard and roof.
Remove all dead and overhanging branches from trees.
Always store firewood well away from your home.
Use construction material that is non-combustible or fire-resistant.