The President Township Volunteer Fire Department would like to help residents prevent property damage, injury or loss of life from fire. These measures can give a home and its surrounding property the ability to repel wildland fire. By following these suggested steps, you create a "defensible space" around your house.

•  Plant low growing, fire resistant plants (groundcover, perennials and annuals) near your home.

•  Remove the lower branches of trees at least 10 feet from the ground and cut back limbs that hang over your roof.

•  Remove leaves, dry grass, and brush from underneath decks and crawlspaces.

•  Keep landscaping well pruned and watered.

•  Store firewood and other combustibles away from your home.

•  Replace wood shake roofing with non-combustible material.

•  Remove leaves and other vegetation from your gutters and roof.

•  Ensure driveways are wide enough for fire vehicles (20 feet wide, 15 feet high).

•  Create a "fuel-break" - - - driveways, gravel walkways, or lawns

•  Remove dead or overhanging branches.

•  Dispose of cuttings and yard debris promptly, according to local regulations.

•  Check your generator and/or hose to be sure it is in good repair.

•  Make trellises of non-flammable metal.

•  If you smoke, use your ashtray.

•  Have at least two ground-level doors as safety exit.

•  Mark your driveway and access roads clearly.

•  Prevent sparks from entering your house by covering vents with wire mesh no larger than 1/8".