Chelan County Fire District 3
Leavenworth, Washington
4-14-08
Spring Into Action
to Help Protect Your Home Against Wildfire!
Fire Season
- From Chief Kelly O'Brien
Every spring I get asked by numerous members of our community what kind of fire season I think we'll have this year. I for one have never been good at being able to predict the coming season. However, I always make sure to mention the one fact I do know and that is we will have a fire season!
Spring cleanup is upon us now, and I’d like to take this opportunity to suggest the following recommendations you can use to help prepare your home and property to survive a wildfire:
- Create a 100 ft. green belt around your home, barns and storage sheds
- Keep trees pruned up off the ground and remove underbrush
- Landscape with fire resistant plants
- Move woodpiles away from your home
- Keep roofs clean from needles, leaves and pine cones
- Ensure driveways are safe and capable of being used by large fire district equipment
Green Belt
The six items listed above could mean the difference in saving your home in the event of a forest fire. Safety of our members is always going to be my first priority in any emergency situation. We won't unnecessarily risk lives to protect homes and property that can’t be saved. District #3 personnel will help you assess your property and make recommendations on action you can take. Literature is also available at the station upon request.
One final recommendation I must make is to have a safe place where you and your family, especially children can go in the event of a fire. Parents of children who are often home alone should ensure the kids know what action to take if a fire inside or outside the home were to occur. Your property can be replaced-- your children cannot.
Please contact Fire District #3 if you have any questions regarding protecting your home against wildfire. Contact information can be obtained from this website.
Kelly O'Brien
Fire Chief
