As we are in peak fire season, Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging rural residents to take proactive steps in assessing the flammability of their homes and properties. With the increasing risk of wildfires, it is crucial to ensure that your property is as fire-resistant as possible.
Why Assess Flammability?
Living in rural areas often means being surrounded by vegetation, which can be both a beautiful and a hazardous feature of your property. Flammable plants and materials can significantly increase the risk of fire spreading to your home. By assessing and managing these risks, you can create a safer environment for you and your family.
Steps to Assess and Reduce Flammability
Create Defensible Space: This involves creating a buffer zone around your home where flammable materials are minimized. This space can slow the spread of fire and provide firefighters with a safer area to work in.
Plant Low Flammability Species: Replace highly flammable plants with low flammability species, especially within 10 meters of your home. This can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading to your house.
Maintain Your Property: Keep grass short around buildings, and clear gutters and areas around decks of dead leaves, debris, and pine needles. Regular maintenance can prevent these materials from becoming fuel for a fire.
Educational Resources
To help educate the public on the importance of low flammability plants, Fire and Emergency New Zealand has teamed up with rugby star Sam Whitelock. Sam, who has a Bachelor of Science in Plant Science, has helped to create educational videos demonstrating the flammability of different plant species. These videos provide valuable insights into which plants to avoid and which to consider for your property.
Check out the video featuring Sam Whitelock here to learn more about plant flammability and how you can make your property safer.
Take Action Now
Now is the time to assess and improve the fire safety of your property. By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and loved ones from the devastating effects of wildfires. For more information and resources, see Fire and Emergency's Homeowner's Guide to Wildfire Protection here.
Stay safe and proactive this fire season!