2023 saw the worst wildfires in Alberta’s recorded history and we are off to another dry start this spring season. Keeping your trees pruned and landscape tidy and free from rubbish isn’t just for appearance’s sake, it has proved to reduce the potential for fire hazards. So, what can you do to help keep the landscape and your property & home safer from wildfire? Here are some important guidelines to help you with your spring clean-up and yard maintenance routine this season.
- Changes within 10 meters of your home will have the biggest impact. Storing firewood, fuel tanks outside of this zone is strongly recommended.
- Ensure taps and hoses are in operating order.
- Regularly remove debris and dried leaf matter from gutters, roofs, decks, and stairs.
- Prune all tree branches within 2 meters of the ground.
- Decrease density of trees in stands- 3 meter spacing is recommended when possible.
- If planting new trees, shrubs, or perennials, consider choosing fire and drought resistant varieties and be mindful of placing evergreen species adjacent to the house. Evergreen trees contain sap and are more flammable than leafy deciduous trees.
- Keep trees and flowers regularly watered during dry periods.
- Check for combustible materials regularly dead trees, discarded aerosol cans, glass bottles and other reflective materials.
Also remember to inspect your winter burn piles: Ensure everything from last season is completely extinguished. Use a metal rod to probe the area. If it feels warm, take action.
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