I have a fire safety tip for you on how to prepare and protect yourself, loved ones, animal-companions, home, belongings, and community from a wildfire.

Vigilance is the best prevention. I have a fire safety tip for you on how to prepare and protect yourself, loved ones, animal-companions, home, belongings, and community from a wildfire. Start by getting rid of dead weeds, plants, grass, and wood piles that are at within 9 meters (30 feet) from your house. Trim tree branches that are 1.8 meters (six feet) or less above the ground and within three meters (10 feet) of other trees. Trim back any overhanging trees or shrubs so emergency vehicles will have access to your home. If you have a deck attached to your home, remove any flammable materials near, above, or below it‒ this includes wood, plants, old shoes, etc. If you have a garage, keep a fire extinguisher, rake, shovel, water buckets, and hoe in it. If not, leave these items in an easily accessible area. Additionally, you can cover your vents because they can allow embers to enter your home. Cover them with a 0.3 cm (1/8-inch) to 0.6 cm (1/4-inch) piece of metal mesh, which are sold at most hardware stores. If your vents are located in hard-to-reach areas such as part of the ceiling molding or eaves, use ember-blocking baffles.