UC Marin Master Gardeners – http://marinmg.ucanr.edu Marin Chapter California Native Plant Society – http://cnpsmarin.org San Rafael is a Tree City – https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/san-rafael-tree-city/ Fire Smart Planting – http://firesafemarin.org/plants
Fire prevention experts have identified zones (areas around your house) that should be improved to reduce fire risk. Zone 0: Immediate Zone (0-5ft from structure) Remove accumulated leaves, needles and dead vegetative growth from the roof, gutters, decks, porches, and stairways. All vegetation in this zone shall be well-irrigated and free from dead or dying … Continued
Detailed information about how to harden you home can be found at: https://www.firesafemarin.org/home-hardening
Clean roofs, gutters, and vents of dead leaves, pine needles, and debris. Enclose or cover gaps over 1/8 inch with metal mesh. This includes vents, eaves, and soffits. Screen or box in areas under patios and decks to prevent debris from accumulating. Remove anything stored underneath. Move combustible material away from exterior walls. Prevent ember … Continued
Home hardening helps reduce fire risk by increasing your home’s resistance to heat, flames, and embers though the use of building materials and installation practices that help protect the vulnerable elements of your house. Several components of the home should be addressed, including the roof, gutters and eaves, vents, siding, windows and doors, and decks, … Continued
Prevents ladder fuel from igniting under or near your structure and climbing up the siding of your home.
Separation and spacing of vegetation is key to a fire safe landscape.
This includes grass, plants, shrubs, trees, branches, leaves, weeds, and needles. These types of fuel ignite quickly and easily from wind blown embers.
This includes any vegetation next to or hanging over a building to eliminate the closest threat.
The roof is the most vulnerable part of the structure. While your roof may be fire rated, embers can still ignite combustible materials like needles or leaves that have accumulated on the roof or in the gutters.
