11. What should be done in case of landscape fire?

Preparing for a landscape fire

If you live in an area prone to landscape fires, here are some tips on how to prepare yourself and your property for an emergency:
 

  • Consult with your local fire department about making your home fire-resistant.
  • Check for, and remove, fire hazards in and around your home, such as dried out branches, leaves and debris.
  • Keep a good sprinkler in an accessible location.
  • Learn fire safety techniques and teach them to members of your family.
  • Have fire drills with your family on a regular basis.
  • Make sure every floor and all sleeping areas have smoke detectors.
Remove living and dead vegetation and firewood storage nearby houses and outbuildings. Source: Guidelines on Defense of Villages, Farms and Other Rural Assets against Wildfires (GFMC).

During a landscape fire

  • Monitor local radio stations.
  • Be prepared to evacuate at any time.
  • Remove all patio furniture, umbrellas, tarps and other combustible material from your yard.
  • Close all doors in your home, and shut off gas valves and pilot lights.
  • Remove flammable drapes, curtains, awnings or other window coverings.
  • Keep lights on to aid visibility in case smoke fills the house.
  • If sufficient water is available, turn sprinklers on to wet the roof and any water-proof valuables.
Small flying embers from bush and forest fires are an important cause of house fires. They will not ignite your garden and house if the flammable materials are removed before the fire. Burning embers can be extinguished easily when landing on your garden or house roof. Source: Guidelines on Defense of Villages, Farms and Other Rural Assets against Wildfires (GFMC).

People living in farmsteads, weekend houses and villages should always be prepared for a wildfire. Throughout the year the fire meteorological fire danger is changing with the seasons. During the hot and dry summers fire danger forecasts broadcasted by TV, radio and social media should be observed. Everyone in the neighborhood should be prepared to cooperate for assisting each other and follow evacuation orders if necessary. Source: Guidelines on Defense of Villages, Farms and Other Rural Assets against Wildfires (GFMC).