ARE YOU FIREWISE?

The summer of 2006 was one of the worst for wildfires in the recorded history of the western US. That may surprise some Coloradoans because we had, compared to other western states, few fires and plentiful rain. Then in 2007 California burned again, with 100's of homes destroyed. Again, Colorado dodged a bullet. So the good news is: if you have not prepared yet, there's still time to take steps to improve your home's chances of surviving a fire.

What can you do? We agree with the Colorado State Forest Service, which says "Start with the easiest and least expensive actions. Begin your work closest to your house and move outward." This brochure goes on to say "The primary determinants of a home's ability to survive wildfire are its roofing material and the quality of the "defensible space" surrounding it.

For just about everything you need to know about preparing your property against wildfire, visit the Firewise Communities website.