Last week many Zionville Fire Department members were busy in Tennessee and in North Carolina assisting in wildfires. Zionville was requested and sent a engine and 4 personnel to assist with a wildfire in Polk County. Several members also assisted with two fires in Johnson County, Tennessee on February 26th and March 3rd.
Creating Defensible Space
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Clear Vegetation: Maintain a buffer zone of at least 30 feet around your home by removing dead plants, leaves, and debris. Trim tree branches to keep them at least 10 feet away from your roof.
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Use Fire-Resistant Plants: Opt for native, fire-resistant plants in your landscaping. Avoid flammable species like pine or cedar.
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Maintain Lawns: Keep grass and weeds short and well-watered to reduce fire risk.
Outdoor Safety
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Safe Storage: Store firewood and flammable materials at least 30 feet away from your home.
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Equipment Use: Avoid using outdoor equipment that can create sparks during dry or windy conditions.
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Campfire Safety: If camping, ensure campfires are fully extinguished before leaving.
Community and Regulations
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Follow Local Guidelines: Adhere to burn bans and fire safety regulations issued by the North Carolina Forest Service.
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Emergency Preparedness: Have an evacuation plan and keep emergency supplies ready.
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For more detailed guidance, you can visit the North Carolina Forest Service website.
