Unfavorable weather conditions, represented by the simultaneous combination of extremely low air humidity and very high ambient temperatures or electrical discharges, in the presence of a fuel such as dry vegetation can trigger a natural fire. People and their negligence or bad intentions represent another major cause that can lead to the outbreak of a vegetation fire: a cigarette bud thrown away, indiscriminate use of pyrotechnic materials or even deliberate arson.
Elements that may increase the risk of a wild fire:
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Fourth of July is unimaginable without parties and traditional fireworks. Unfortunately, even though we may not like to admit it, this type of entertainment can often be the cause of major problems, such as forest fires.
Many people prefer to believe that fireworks have a very low risk of starting fires, which is somewhat true, in the case of controlled fireworks. But let's not forget all the partygoers who use Fourth of July pyrotechnic devices, without questioning their quality or safe use. In addition, there is the danger of cigarette buds thrown away irresponsibly and unattended campfires. So, if you have a forested property, you should be extra careful this Fourth of July. The smoke produced by the fires affects human health, causing diseases of the eyes, skin and respiratory system, not to mention their potential to destroy flora, fauna, as well as private properties. An ember propagated by vegetation on a forested private property can ignite, in a very short time, the house and household outbuildings. If you are a forested property owner, make sure you consider wildfire mitigation services and have tree removal done if necessary, to minimize the risks related to the destructive effects that a wildfire may have on your property. If you live in an area prone to frequent wildfires, fire mitigation should be a priority for you, because it minimizes potential catastrophic damage.
Fire mitigation refers to a proactive approach to create a safe area around a house and modify the construction in order to make it as fire-proof as possible. The defensible space is created by removing or modifying the surrounding vegetation, to reduce the intensity of wildfires and prevent them from spreading. Additional measures taken into account include reconsidering the size and the shape of the house, the construction materials it is made from (replacing combustible materials, such as wood and plastic, with non-combustible materials: natural stones, brick, concrete or metal) and the slope of the ground. If it sounds complicated, do not worry. There are wildfire mitigation companies out there that can develop an effective management plan to increase the protection of your property. When you choose such a company, make sure to consider these 3 things:
Scrub oak, which is the more common name of Gambel oak, (Quercus gambelii) is quite common in many regions, such as El Paso, Douglas and Elbert counties in Colorado. People like it and keep it because it is considered maintenance free, so it grows out naturally even with no intervention.
However, in some cases, too much scrub oak on a property is potentially dangerous, because it might increase fire hazard. So, if you live in a place prone to wildfires, you should deal with some scrub oak management, to protect your home. It is not necessary to cut down all these shrubby oaks on your property. Just makes sure there is a safe area around your home, and the vegetation beyond it is healthy, without dead or diseased branches. This way, scrub oak shrubs can be allowed to grow safely and complete your landscape. How should you prune a scrub oak? First, you will have to remove damaged and dead branches, as they can be easily caught by a fire. Next, trim the lower branches at an even level and also cut all crossed branches. Once your tree is properly groomed, make sure to remove the debris resulted in the process. This operation should be done every year to ensure fire mitigation, because scrub oak regrows quickly due to its extensive root system. For help in removing scrub oak and trees from your property, see https://www.acetreecareservices.com/. Although it is natural to feel powerless and overwhelmed when you must deal with the perspective of a natural disaster, it is good to know that, even when it comes to wildfires, there are things you can do to increase your safety and maximize the surviving chances of your home.
The best attitude is to be proactive and do your best to ensure that your property is not high risk for wildfires, and get the services of fire mitigation Colorado Springs companies offer. Vegetation If you are about to move in a new region, you should want to know if it is prone to frequent wildfires. Local vegetation is an indicator. Shrub lands as well as varied forest ecosystems increase the risks, that is why there should be a certain distance between your home and the surrounding vegetation. The greater the distance is, the better. Besides, living in an isolated area could mean that fire engines may take longer to reach you, especially if roads are not wide enough to allow vehicles carrying the necessary equipment to get through. Precipitation The level of precipitation in the region is another indicator that must be considered. Longer periods without rain obviously increase the risk of wildfires. Construction materials Concrete, brick, metal and natural stones are non-combustible construction materials that should be used for fire-proofing properties. On the other side, wood, wood-plastic composite and PVC materials should be avoided. Living in a region prone to wildfires makes fire mitigation imperative. It is a personal responsibility to protect your home and the environment.
However, considering all the necessary details and making all the necessary works to avoid the consequences of wildfires is not easy, but you always have the option to consider professional fire mitigation services. What will you get for your money? The main priority of a fire mitigation company is to create a safe space around your property. Specialists will not remove the entire vegetation, as this is not a sustainable approach, but only cut off what is vulnerable and unnecessary and keep fire-resistant species (maple, cherry trees or honeysuckle are just a few examples). Grass will be maintained properly and watered regularly, in order to remain green; pine needles and dry leaves will be removed on a regular basis, not only from the soil, but also from the roof and gutters. Fire mitigation specialists will also suggest the best materials to make your house as fire proof as possible, as well as protective landscape designs (decorative gravel, stone structures etc.). Besides, they will make sure that your property is visible and marked, to help firefighters reach you, in the event of a fire. |
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