Defensible Space the Key for Fire Protection Around the Bay Area

By: Brian Shields - Mon, 11 Jun 2012 23:27:27 -0800
OAKLAND (KRON) -- Firefighters across the Bay Area are patrolling neighborhoods looking for homes and businesses that have not cleared defensible space as the fire season is upon us.

In Oakland, KRON 4's Dan Kerman went on one of the patrols with firefighters.  In some cases he found homes that had 30 feet or more of cleared space that in case of a wildfire would be easier for residents and firefighters to defend from spreading flames.  In other cases, Dan and fire officials found trees growing next to homes.

Officials say in case of a major fire firefighters might make the decision to allow homes that haven't been cleared of trees and brush to burn while resources are focused on buildings that are better bets to survive.

In Marin County, KRON 4's Jeff Bush talked with firefighters who are also on the patrol for buildings that will be most in danger of being damaged or destroyed in a major fire.

Officials there warn fires are caused by many things including sparks from lawn mowers and edgers hitting rocks and other debris.  That's why, they say, it's important to do the work clearing your property of dry grass and other potential hazards when the weather is cool.  They say it's best to do such work early in the morning before 10:00 a.m.

(Copyright 2012, KRON 4, All rights reserved.)
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