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Forest fires, especially those started during dry conditions
such as those we are experiencing now, can travel large distances rapidly and
quickly "jump" from one area to another. 
With more people now living near
forested areas, the potential for disaster is increased.
People living in homes near wooded areas with trees and heavy vegetation
growing too close to the home are especially at risk.
If you live in a rural or semi-rural area near the woods we encourage you to take
the following steps to protect your home, family and personal belongings:
1. Create a "break" (a fire-resistant defensible space) around your home.
Maintain a cleared area within 30 feet of your house, removing hazardous and flammable materials,
debris and vegetation. Remove twigs and needles which may be on your roof. Thin and
prune the trees near your house and keep firewood and combustible materials away from buildings.
King County residents can search the King County Department of Natural Resources' Recycling and Reuse database
to locate vendors who will take landclearing debris and wood, as well as on-site chipping services.
2. Make sure firefighters can get to you.
Make sure your address is easily visible for firefighters. Is your driveway wide enough
for a fire truck to enter and turn around? It may not be possible for firefighters to
defend your home without good access, an adequate escape route, and defensible space around the home.
3. Stop sparks before they become fire. Screens on your chimney and burn barrel will help contain burning embers. Place screens on your home vents to block burning embers from approaching wildfires. When it's time, consider replacing your roof with one made of fire-resistant materials. Face exposed decks, porches, or foundations with skirting. Keep a hose and fire tools readily accessible, especially when you burn debris.
4. Keep fire safety equipment readily accessible inside and outside your home. Make sure the home has operable smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Have fire tools and a connected hose readily at hand outside. Make sure all family members know where this equipment is and how to summon help in event of a fire.
5. Check for neighborhood hazards such as hazard trees or limbs which could fall and break power lines. Notify your power company of potential hazards.
6. Spread the word to your neighbors. Neighbors working together can create better fire safety than individuals working alone. Ask your neighbors to join you in helping to make your neighborhood firesafe.
* Information courtesy of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
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