Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, April 13, 1995 TAG: 9504130032
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV-8 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: Joe Hunnings
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Virginia residents may have become complacent because of past fire prevention efforts and the organization of well-equipped and -trained volunteer fire departments. Historically, relatively few wildfires have occurred, and those have been kept small because of early detection and prompt and aggressive response.
But last winter's ice storms set the stage for many more large and dangerous wildfires.
``The potential exists for hotter and faster-moving fires due to the increased amount of woody fuel on the forest floor,'' Clark said.
Forestry officials offer these tips to reduce the risk to woodland homes:
Do not burn storm debris. Instead, pile debris to make wildlife shelters, or chip and mulch it.
Make sure firefighters can locate and reach rural home sites. House numbers must be clearly visible from the road.
Maintain a safety zone around homes in rural areas, sometimes called a ``defensible space.'' Guidelines include having no flammable material within five feet of structures, use of lawn grass or other green ground cover for 25 to 30 feet, removal of forest debris within 30 feet of structures and up to 100 feet on any downhill side, and not storing firewood within the safety area.
Develop an emergency water supply for firefighters.
Use fire-resistant building materials for roof, siding and patios, and especially avoid wood-shingle roofing.
Dispose of stove, fireplace or grill ashes in metal containers for 48 hours, then soak with water.
Keep roof and gutters free of leaves.
The Virginia Department of Forestry has more information.
by CNB