Managing Flammables

In addition to flammability concerns related to the house, other structures, and surrounding vegetation, other items and materials should be considered in creating a fire-resistant environment around your home. If not properly managed, these items may serve only to provide additional fuel for the fire and may increase the threat to your home. These other flammables include:

Firewood

Firewood is firewood because it readily burns. Embers or direct flame can ignite firewood you have stored on your property. To prevent these stacks from being a conduit for flames to reach your home, all firewood should be stored a safe distance away (minimum of 30 feet) from the structure and never adjacent to it, under decks, or under eaves.

Gasoline

Store gasoline that you may have for your lawn mower, boat, ATVs, or other uses away from the house and never inside the house. Sheds and other outbuildings should receive the same Firewise considerations as the home, such as building materials and surrounding landscape.

Propane Tanks

Many isolated homes rely on propane gas for heating, cooking, and a variety of appliances. All propane gas tanks should be located away from the home. The area around and under the tanks and any lines extending from the tanks should be kept clear of flammable vegetation and debris.