Floridians can finally enjoy the arrival of dry season. By using it brings relief from oppressive heat and humidity together with cold fronts and cooler temperatures.
However, the Florida Forest Service also reminds us, drier days increase the chance for forest fires. So far in this year, 93,000 acres have burned over the state.
“Following fire-safe practices can protect your loved ones and home,” says Ellsworth Buck, V . p . of Insurance, Florida's largest independent homeowners insurance agency.
To help you stay as well as your home safe during these drier days, below are some tips.
Clear out dry vegetation-get ride of pine needles, dry leaves, dead palm fronds, dead sticks and twigs on your lawn.
Don't your investment roof-remove dry vegetation in the roof and clean out your gutters. Eliminate any overhang from trees too. Cut any tree branches within 10 feet of the roof.
Mowing-cut dry weeds and grass before noon when temperatures are cooler.
Pick-up-keep woodpiles, propane tanks and combustible materials far from home, garage or shed.
Water!
“To take your home protection a step further, the Florida Forest Service recommends creating a defensible space around your home,” says Ellsworth Buck, V . p . of, Insurance Florida's top independent homeowners insurance agency.
A defensible space, is Fire Wise landscaping. Zinc heightens the chance that the home will survive a wildfire even just in the lack of firefighters. The U.S. Forest Service explains, Fire Wise landscaping is designed to minimize the spreading of a forest fire.
Your yard is split in four zones. Each zone represents some space that extends out of your home.
Zone 1, 0-30 ft. “defensible space”-plant nothing flammable upon your home.
Zone 2, 30-60 ft. “fuel reduction”-use elevated boxes, stone walkways and patios.
Zone 3, 60-100 ft. “transition zone”-driveways in this particular zone provide a break.
Zone 4, 100 ft. + “perimeter zone”-even at a distance, it is important to maintain vegetation.
