Florida Division of Forestry Press Release:

This summer consistent rainfall has dampened our area reducing the drought level and the threat of wildfire. These rains have also had a positive effect on plant life causing substantial growth. This increased growth has the potential to produce future fuel for wildfire.

With crisp fall winds not far away, now is the right time for homeowners to keep their properties lean, clean, and green.

To be lean means to provide for fewer plants and wider spacing of plants in the immediate vicinity of the house. Thick vegetation leading up to the house provides a pathway for fire to travel into the house. It is recommended that homeowners establish a lean zone of 30’- 50’ surrounding the home.

The clean part of this equation calls for the removal of all dead plant life and clearing of underbrush within the 30’-50’ defensible zone next to the home.

Keeping plants and vegetation green is the last part of this equation. Under the right conditions any plant will burn. However, research has shown that green healthy plants that have been receiving adequate watering are much less likely to burn than dry, dead plant material.

Taking the time now to make sure dead yard debris and plants are cleared and maintaining a clean defensible area around the house will pay off down the road when we again experience extreme dry conditions and the risk for wildfire increases.

For more information: www.fl-dof.com
(850) 414-1138