South Burlington Wildland Fire Safety

Based on fire data submitted to Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation, April and May are considered the peak fire season in Vermont and New York.  According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), more than 47,000 wildfires burned over 4.3 million acres in 2013.

The combination of drought, warmer temperatures, high winds and an excess of dried vegetation in forests and grasslands has made fire seasons progressively worse

over the past 50 years.  Burning debris is the #1 cause of wildfires nationwide.  By working together and following these easy steps around your home, we can all make a significant difference to reduce the risk of wildfires in our community.

CLEAR leaves and other vegetative debris from roofs, gutters, porches and decks.

REMOVE dead vegetation and other items from under your deck or porch, and within 10 feet of the house.
SCREEN in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.

REMOVE flammable materials (wood piles, propane tanks) within 30 feet of your home’s foundation, including garages and sheds.

KEEP your lawn hydrated and maintained.  If it is brown, cut it down to reduce fire intensity.  Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

OBTAIN A BURN PERMIT from the Fire Chief or his designee when kindling a fire for the purpose of normal property clean-up; to include leaves, brush, deadwood, garden waste, or tree cuttings.  Only natural items are to be burned, maintaining a minimum distance of 50 ft from buildings.

To learn how you can make a difference in your community visit:
www.firewise.org
www.fireadapted.org

Senior Fire Fighter/Paramedic Bradley Dattilio

Fire Prevention Education Coordinator - SBFD