Although the recent cooler weather has helped to ease the threat of fire danger across the state— local news source, KHOU.com, reported that hotter, dryer conditions are expected to make their way through Texas by this weekend.
The Texas Forest Service reported on Wednesday that “critical fire weather conditions are likely Saturday and Sunday as winds begin to pick up during hot, dry conditions”. They added that currently, 180 of the state’s 254 counties now have burn bans in place.
Image via MSNBC.com
So as a Texas homeowner, how can you protect your home and property from wildfire risks? The Texas Forest Service has generated a list of tips designed to help you properly prepare your home and lessen the threat of wildfire damage to you and your property:
1. LPG tanks should be far enough away from buildings for valves to be shut off in case of fire. Keep the area around the tank clear of any flammable debris or vegetation.
2. Store gasoline in an approved safety can away from occupied buildings.
3. All combustibles such as firewood, wooden picnic tables, boats, stacked lumber, etc. should be kept away from all structures.
4. Clear roof surfaces and gutters regularly to avoid build-up of flammable materials such as leaves and other debris.
5. Remove branches from trees to a height of 15 feet or more.
6. In rural areas, clear a fuel break of at least 3 times the fuel length around all structures.
7. Have fire tools handy such as: a ladder long enough to reach your roof, shovel, rake and a bucket or two of water.
8. Place connected garden hoses at all sides of your home for emergency use.
9. Assure that you and your family know all emergency exits from your home.
10. Assure that you and your family know all emergency exits from your neighborhood.
Most importantly, securing a customized Texas home insurance policy can help you better manage the aftermath of a serious wildfire. If you have any questions at all about your current homeowners insurance – and whether or not your home is effectively protected from wild fire risks – contact Dagley Insurance and Financial Services today; we’d be happy to help!