Page 72 - 2019_TOH_booklet_rev01 final

2019 BNCW & Sangster Motors Home Tour & Remodeling Expo

Fire Resistance

Fire occurrence in North Central Landscape Zone 1: 0-5 feet if the structure has one-hour
Washington flame-resistant siding OR 0-10 feet if the structure has non-
flame-resistant siding. In this zone, the goal is to prevent
On average, wildland fires occur in Chelan and Douglas ignitions on or near a structure.
counties between every six and 30 years. Wildland fire has
been a part of the North Central Washington ecosystem • Plant no trees or shrubs.
since the retreat of the Continental glaciers more than • Use only inorganic mulch. (Rubber mulch is not
10,000 year ago. Wildland fire is an essential part of the acceptable for use.)
environment in this area. Fire serves as a key component in • Plant fire-resistant plants with high moisture content.
maintaining a healthy and productive ecosystem. To reduce
fire damage in the fire-prone wildland urban interface of Landscape Zone 2: 5-30 feet. In this zone, the goal is
to prevent any spread of a fire that may be ignited from
Fire occurrence in burning embers or other ignition sources. Mulches
North Central Washington, home owners can site buildings,
Landscape Zone 2: 5-30 feet. In this zone, the goal is to prevent any spread of a
fire that may be ignited from burning embers or other ignition sources.
use appropriate construction materials, and select fire-
North Central Washington • Plant single trees that are pruned at least 10’ from the Mulches used around the landscape are valuable because they conserve
resistant plants to minimize losses. Wildland fire will always
u Plant single trees that are pruned at least 10’ from the ground.
moisture and help reduce weed growth. Organic mulches, such as bark, are
Fire occurrence in Landscape Zone 2: 5-30 feet. In this zone, the goal is to prevent any spread of a often used. However, firebrands from a wildland fire can ignite dry bark mulch,
Mulches
burn in North Central Washington but that does not mean
u Plant single shrubs. Keep well groomed.

ground.
On average, wildland fires occur in Chelan and Douglas counties between every
fire that may be ignited from burning embers or other ignition sources.
u Clean up dead fuels.

conveying the fire to a building. Consider using less- combustible types of
six and 30 years. Wildland fire has been a part of the North Central Washington
homes have to be lost to wildland fires. There are many
North Central Washington • Plant single shrubs. Keep well groomed. mulch such as gravel or decorative rock, or a combination of wood bark mulch
u Eliminate continuous ground fuel and ladder fuels.
Mulches used around the landscape are valuable because they conserve
ecosystem since the retreat of the Continental glaciers more than 10,000 year
actions a home owner can take to live safely in a fire prone
surrounded by decorative rock mulch. Do not use wood or bark mulches within
ago. Wildland fire is an essential part of the environment in this area. Fire serves u Plant single trees that are pruned at least 10’ from the ground.
• Clean up dead fuels.
moisture and help reduce weed growth. Organic mulches, such as bark, are
Landscape Zone 3: 30-100+ feet. In this zone, the goal is to reduce the heat
environment.
as a key component in maintaining a healthy and productive ecosystem. To u Plant single shrubs. Keep well groomed. 5 feet of the house. Instead, consider colored rock, rock cinders, pavers, or other

often used. However, firebrands from a wildland fire can ignite dry bark mulch,
generated by a fire (intensity) as it gets closer to a structure.
On average, wildland fires occur in Chelan and Douglas counties between every • Eliminate continuous ground fuel and ladder fuels. non-combustible, inorganic materials.
reduce fire damage in the fire-prone wildland urban interface of North Central
six and 30 years. Wildland fire has been a part of the North Central Washington u Clean up dead fuels. conveying the fire to a building. Consider using less- combustible types of
Defensible Space
Washington, home owners can site buildings, use appropriate construction
materials, and select fire-resistant plants to minimize losses. Wildland fire will u Eliminate continuous ground fuel and ladder fuels.

u Maintain well-spaced trees with crowns well separated.
mulch such as gravel or decorative rock, or a combination of wood bark mulch
ecosystem since the retreat of the Continental glaciers more than 10,000 year Landscape Zone 3: 30-100+ feet. In this zone, the goal is Maintenance

u Eliminate ladder fuels.

The most important person in preventing a structure from
always burn in North Central Washington but that does not mean homes have
ago. Wildland fire is an essential part of the environment in this area. Fire serves to reduce the heat generated by a fire (intensity) as it gets surrounded by decorative rock mulch. Do not use wood or bark mulches within
u Minimize ground/surface fuels.
to be lost to wildland fires. There are many actions a home owner can take to live
5 feet of the house. Instead, consider colored rock, rock cinders, pavers, or other
burning in a wildland fire is the property owner. Home
as a key component in maintaining a healthy and productive ecosystem. To Landscape Zone 3: 30-100+ feet. In this zone, the goal is to reduce the heat Maintenance is absolutely essential to a fire-resistant landscape. Plants listed
closer to a structure.
u Keep shrubs pruned, thinned, and well-spaced.
safely in a fire prone environment.
non-combustible, inorganic materials.
owners, not fire departments, have the responsibility to take
reduce fire damage in the fire-prone wildland urban interface of North Central generated by a fire (intensity) as it gets closer to a structure. as fire-resistant, if allowed to grow unchecked and poorly maintained, can
Washington, home owners can site buildings, use appropriate construction • Maintain well-spaced trees with crowns well separated. become fire hazards. Practice, “if it is brown trim it down”. Proper maintenance of
action before a fire ever happens. Actions taken before the
Defensible Space
landscaping is crucial and cannot be ignored.
materials, and select fire-resistant plants to minimize losses. Wildland fire will u Maintain well-spaced trees with crowns well separated. Remember: “Lean, clean, and green” are the essentials to a fire-resistant
• Eliminate ladder fuels.
DENSE COVER OF SHRUBS OR TREES PRESENT Maintenance
fire often determine the final outcome. Creating defensible
always burn in North Central Washington but that does not mean homes have u Eliminate ladder fuels. STEP THREE: IS THERE A CONTINUOUS rupted layer of vegetation as opposed to being patchy or wildfire areas, they are also highly erodable. When
Not only are steep slopes often considered high
Sometimes wildland plants can occur as an uninter-
landscape.

The most important person in preventing a structure from burning in a wildland
space around a home is one of the most important and
• Minimize ground/surface fuels.
fire is the property owner. Home owners, not fire departments, have the
to be lost to wildland fires. There are many actions a home owner can take to live u Minimize ground/surface fuels. WITHIN THE RECOMMENDED DEFENSIBLE SPACE widely spaced individual plants. The more continuous removing shrubs and trees from steep slopes, keep soil
and dense the vegetation, the greater the wildfire threat.
effective steps one can take to protect families, firefighters
disturbance to a minimum. Also, it may be necessary to
Maintenance is absolutely essential to a fire-resistant landscape. Plants listed
responsibility to take action before a fire ever happens. Actions taken before u Keep shrubs pruned, thinned, and well-spaced.
AREA?
replace flammable vegetation with other plant materials
If this situation is present within your defensible space
safely in a fire prone environment. • Keep shrubs pruned, thinned, and well-spaced. Maintenance practices for
to prevent excessive soil erosion.
area, you should “break-it-up” by providing a separation
the fire often determine the final outcome. Creating defensible space around a
as fire-resistant, if allowed to grow unchecked and poorly maintained, can
and homes from catastrophic wildfire. Defensible space is
between plants or small groups of plants.
home is one of the most important and effective steps one can take to protect become fire hazards. Practice, “if it is brown trim it down”. Proper maintenance of
the area between a structure and an oncoming wildfire (or
Continuous, dense
families, firefighters and homes from catastrophic wildfire. Defensible space is
uninterrupted
Defensible Space fire-resistant landscapes vegetation
landscaping is crucial and cannot be ignored.
between a burning structure and wildland vegetation) where
the area between a structure and an oncoming wildfire (or between a burning
Remember: “Lean, clean, and green” are the essentials to a fire-resistant
The primary objective of landscape maintenance is esthetics and to reduce the
structure and wildland vegetation) where nearby vegetation has been modified
nearby vegetation has been modified to reduce a wildfire’s
spread and intensity of a threatening wildland fire.
Sometimes wildland plants can occur as an uninter-
Not only are steep slopes often considered high
to reduce a wildfire’s intensity and ability to spread. Having a defensible space
landscape.
The most important person in preventing a structure from burning in a wildland STEP THREE: IS THERE A CONTINUOUS rupted layer of vegetation as opposed to being patchy or wildfire areas, they are also highly erodable. When
intensity and ability to spread. Having a defensible space
not only protects homes, it also helps protect those who are defending homes by
Patchy vegetation
removing shrubs and trees from
fire is the property owner. Home owners, not fire departments, have the DENSE COVER OF SHRUBS OR TREES PRESENT widely spaced individual plants. The • Pruning to remove ladder fuels steep slopes, keep soil
• Washing dead debris out of plants more continuous
or widely spaced
WITHIN THE RECOMMENDED DEFENSIBLE SPACE
not only protects homes, it also helps protect those who are
providing safe ingress and egress.
and dense the vegetation, the greater the wildfire threat.
disturbance to a minimum. Also, it may be necessary to
• Spacing
responsibility to take action before a fire ever happens. Actions taken before AREA? • Thinning If this situation is present within your defensible space individual plants.
replace flammable vegetation with other plant materials
• Raking
• Weeding
defending homes by providing safe ingress and egress.
area, you should “break-it-up” by providing a separation
to prevent excessive soil erosion.
the fire often determine the final outcome. Creating defensible space around a STEP THREE: IS THERE A CONTINUOUS rupted layer of vegetation as opposed to being patchy or Maintenance practices for
• Mowing/Weed Eating
• Using only inorganic mulch
Not only are steep slopes often considered high
Sometimes wildland plants can occur as an uninter-
between plants or small groups of plants.
wildfire areas, they are also highly erodable. When
home is one of the most important and effective steps one can take to protect DENSE COVER OF SHRUBS OR TREES PRESENT widely spaced individual plants. The more continuous • Watering close to structures Continuous, dense
removing shrubs and trees from steep slopes, keep soil
Recommended Separation
WITHIN THE RECOMMENDED DEFENSIBLE SPACE
disturbance to a minimum. Also, it may be necessary to
and dense the vegetation, the greater the wildfire threat.
families, firefighters and homes from catastrophic wildfire. Defensible space is Firebrands (Sparks or Embers) • Cleaning roofs and gutters Distances for Shrubs and uninterrupted
ponds and plants
AREA?
replace flammable vegetation with other plant materials
If this situation is present within your defensible space
• Cleaning up and properly disposing of yard waste
patio
to prevent excessive soil erosion.
Small Conifers

the area between a structure and an oncoming wildfire (or between a burning patio shrubs and landscaping area, you should “break-it-up” by providing a separation fire-resistant landscapes vegetation
between plants or small groups of plants.
• Removing dead fuels
For areas with dense brush and small conifer trees,
After
Before
The primary objective of landscape maintenance is esthetics and to reduce the
deck
deck
Replace the drawing on page 5 with this drawing.
structure and wildland vegetation) where nearby vegetation has been modified Wildfire threatens homes in three ways: direct contact by flames, radiated heat, • Separating shrubs horizontally so they are no closer than twice their height
the recommended separation distance is dependant
Continuous, dense
upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific
uninterrupted
spread and intensity of a threatening wildland fire.
gravel

to reduce a wildfire’s intensity and ability to spread. Having a defensible space (no plants) and firebrands (burning embers). More homes burn due to firebrands than • Separating plants vertically so the space between the top of a shrub and
recommendations are presented below.
vegetation
due to any other cause. When fire conditions are right, firebrands can be lofted
gravel
not only protects homes, it also helps protect those who are defending homes by high into the air and transported more than a mile from the main fire. Firebrands the lower branches of a tree are at least three times the height of the shrub
• Pruning to remove ladder fuels
In broad leaf evergreen section the font size varies. It needs to be consistent.
• Washing dead debris out of plants
(no plants)
Patchy vegetation
providing safe ingress and egress. plants and landscaping also can be carried by wind and fire whirls. If firebrands land in easily ignitable • Practicing “Lean, Clean and Green” maintenance at least 30 feet around or widely spaced
• Thinning
• Spacing
Starting on page 33
the structure
individual plants.
materials such as dried grass, fallen leaves, wood shake roofs, leaf- or needle-filled • Raking Patchy vegetation • Weeding

or widely spaced
gutters, a new fire easily can start. Home owners can take action to reduce the Not only are steep slopes often considered high
individual plants.
• Using only inorganic mulch
• Mowing/Weed Eating
Sometimes wildland plants can occur as an uninter-
ignition potential on and immediately adjacent to the home to combat incoming Recommended Separation Distances
STEP THREE: IS THERE A CONTINUOUS
wildfire areas, they are also highly erodable. When
Wildfire Fuel Ecology
Wildfire Fuel Species
TYPES OF DEAD VEGETATION AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
Wildfire Types Home Ignition Zone and firebrands. DENSE COVER OF SHRUBS OR TREES PRESENT rupted layer of vegetation as opposed to being patchy or • Watering close to structures
removing shrubs and trees from steep slopes, keep soil
widely spaced individual plants. The more continuous
Home Ignition Zone and Landscape Zones
for Shrubs and Small Conifers
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
DEAD FUEL TYPE
disturbance to a minimum. Also, it may be necessary to
This guide is designed to provide northeastern Minnesota Two types of wildfires can threaten your property. The flammability of individual trees and fuels varies depending on what The most important thing you can do is create WITHIN THE RECOMMENDED DEFENSIBLE SPACE and dense the vegetation, the greater the wildfire threat. • Cleaning roofs and gutters Recommended Separation
evergreens typically (1) have leaves with lower moisture content, especially ns at the home and extends out Firebrands (Sparks or Embers)
ponds and plants
replace flammable vegetation with other plant materials
type they are. In general, trees with evergreen needles are more flammable
property owners in wildfire-prone areas with practical tips for These are surface fires and crown fires. Landscape Zones defensible space, or a safety zone, immediately AREA? If this situation is present within your defensible space Recommended Separation Distances for Shrubs and
Distances for Shrubs and
Remove all standing dead trees from within the defensible
STANDING DEAD TREE
Small Conifers
patio
to prevent excessive soil erosion.
protecting their homes and businesses from wildfires through Surface fires move along the ground and burn dry materials lying on than broadleaved deciduous trees. This is because most needle-leaved patio surrounding your home. Wildfire experts Firebrands (Sparks or Embers) area, you should “break-it-up” by providing a separation • Cleaning up and properly disposing of yard waste
The Home Ignition Zone begi

space area.
Small Conifers
the use of appropriate landscaping techniques, including the or immediately above it including tree limbs, grass, stumps, shrubs, leaves, divide defensible space into two zones: Building Materials between plants or small groups of plants. For areas with brush and small conifer trees, the recommended separation
• Removing dead fuels
After
use of wildfire-resistant plants. This type of landscape design to pine needles and pine cones. Similar to crown fires, surface fires can The Home Ignition Zone begins at the home and extends out as far as 100 to 200 Replace the drawing on page 5 with this drawing. DOWN DEAD TREE Remove all down dead trees within the defensible space For areas with dense brush and small conifer trees,
during drought, and (2) have sap containing flammable resins.
For areas with dense brush and small conifer trees,
as far as 100 to 200 feet depending on the characteristics of
Before
deck
deck
shrubs and landscaping
Wildfire threatens homes in three ways: direct contact by
the recommended
Continuous, dense
the recommended separation distance is dependant
prevent wildfire damage is referred to as Firewise Landscaping. 1. The Intensive Zone, 0-30 ft around buildings. Wildfire threatens homes in three ways: direct contact by flames, radiated heat, distance is dependent upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific separation distance is dependant
• Separating shrubs horizontally so they are no closer than twice their height
In northeastern Minnesota, the two most flammable tree species
throw burning embers, although not nearly as far. Surface fires can feet depending on the characteristics of adjacent lands. Maintaining the Home The home design, location, construction materials, and access all influence its area if they have recently fallen and are not yet embedded upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific
upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific
adjacent lands. Maintaining the Home Ignition Zone lean, clean
into the ground. Downed trees that are embedded into uninterrupted
gravel
The goal is to encourage local solutions for living more safely quickly surround a property and accelerate in vulnerable areas where are balsam fir and black spruce (see table below). Jack pine and 2. The Extensive Zone, 30-100 ft around buildings. and firebrands (burning embers). More homes burn due to firebrands than recommendations are presented below. recommendations are presented below.
survivability during a wildland fire. The most exposed portion of your home
recommendations are presented below.

• Separating plants vertically so the space between the top of a shrub and
(no plants)
vegetation
white spruce are also quite flammable, while white pine, red pine,
with wildfire threats by involving homeowners in taking brush is piled or where ladder fuels allow fire to reach tree canopies. Ignition Zone lean, clean and green reduces ignition risk and the fire spread flames, radiated heat, and firebrands (burning embers). More soil and which cannot be removed without soil disturbance
Most Firewise work should be concentrated in the intensive zone,
is the roof. A Class A roofing offers fire resistance and greatly improves the
and white cedar (arbor vitae) are somewhat less flammable.
and green reduces ignition risk and the fire spread potential.
individual responsibility for preparing their properties to better They also can move quickly and cause great damage and injury when potential. Within the Home Ignition Zone, a fire-resistant landscape can be due to any other cause. When fire conditions are right, firebrands can be lofted should be left in place. Remove all exposed branches
the lower branches of a tree are at least three times the height of the shrub
homes burn due to firebrands than due to any other cause.
with work proceeding outwards into the larger extensive zone. There
gravel
survive wildfires. there is wind or steep terrain. After winters with little snow, spring (no plants) In broad leaf evergreen section the font size varies. It needs to be consistent. from an embedded downed dead tree.
likelihood of the structure surviving a wildland fire. The use of fire-resistant
high into the air and transported more than a mile from the main fire. Firebrands
are six basic steps to creating a well- managed defensible space:
Within the Home Ignition Zone, a fire-resistant landscape can
wildfires in tall, un-compacted grasses are a common form of surface created by reducing flammable fuels. These Landscape Zones within the Home
DEAD SHRUBS
Remove all dead shrubs from within the defensible space
building materials such as cement board siding, dual-pane windows, boxed in
fire in northeastern Minnesota. Defensible Space Zones 1. Thin, Prune up to 10 ft (but not more than 1/3 of live When fire conditions are right, firebrands can be lofted high area. • Practicing “Lean, Clean and Green” maintenance at least 30 feet around
also can be carried by wind and fire whirls. If firebrands land in easily ignitable
plants and landscaping
Understanding Wildfire Crown fires burn through the canopy of forested areas either Ignition Zone can be used when selecting fire-resistant vegetation in fire-prone Starting on page 33 the structure
crown) or remove conifer trees. Make sure crowns are at
be created by reducing flammable fuels. These Landscape
eaves, and metal screen (1/8” or less) covering vents reduces the probability of
environments.
into the air and transported more than a mile from the main
least 10 feet apart (intensive zone suggestion is at least 20
DRIED GRASSES AND
Patchy vegetation
ignition of one’s home. Make sure decks and fencing are in good repair and free
Fuels & Behavior independent from surface fuels or in addition to the surface fuels. Zones within the Home Ignition Zone can be used when materials such as dried grass, fallen leaves, wood shake roofs, leaf- or needle-filled Once grasses and wildflowers have dried out or “cured,”
feet between crowns or 30 feet between clusters of trees)
WILDFLOWERS
cut down and remove from the defensible space area.

Crown fires need a lot of heat energy from the surface fire, ladder fuels,
or widely spaced
of clutter and debris. Remember, if it is attached to your house, it is part of your
gutters, a new fire easily can start. Home owners can take action to reduce the
2. Remove all understory ladder fuels (small balsam)
Protection of property from wildfire, and wind to get going. Individual trees often “torch”—called passive Landscape Zone 1: 0-5 feet if the structure has one-hour flame-resistant siding fire. Firebrands also can be carried by wind and fire whirls. Reduce thick layers of pine needles to a depth of two individual plants.
TYPES OF DEAD VEGETATION AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
Recommended Separation Distances
house! Consider the use of metal gates and other non-flammable materials to
requires a basic understanding of crown fire - but typically, this type of burning cannot be sustained for selecting fire-resistant vegetation in fire-prone environments. If firebrands land in easily ignitable materials such as dried inches. Do not remove all needles. Take care not to
OR 0-10 feet if the structure has non-flame-resistant siding. In this zone, the
3. Remove and minimize surface fuels
DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES,
ignition potential on and immediately adjacent to the home to combat incoming
long. Active and independent crown fires create the most heat, the
Home Ignition Zone and
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
DEAD FUEL TYPE
BRANCHES, CONES
(thick pine needles, dead branches)
wildfire fuels and behavior.
Wildfire Fuel Species
Wildfire Fuel Ecology
Wildfire Types most smoke, and typically move quite rapidly. Because active and goal is to prevent ignitions on or near a structure. firebrands. separate fences and decks from your home. Lawn furniture, decorations and disturb the “duff” layer (dark area at the ground surface Note: Separation distances are measured between
TYPES OF DEAD VEGETATION AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
(ON THE GROUND)
where needles are decomposing) if present. Remove dead
canopies (outermost branches) and not between trunks.
independent crown fires require wind to get started, the potential
4. Create non-combustible borders around the
STANDING DEAD TREE
Remove all standing dead trees from within the defensible
u Plant no trees or shrubs.
exists for wind transport of embers over long distances, 72 base of your buildings. (3 to 5 ft from building) other flammable items may serve as receptor of firebrands and pose an increased leaves, twigs, cones, and branches.
(OTHER THAN ON THE GROUND) for Shrubs and Small Conifers
space area.DEAD FUEL TYPE
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope
Wildfire Fuel Types
The flammability of individual trees and fuels varies depending on what
This guide is designed to provide northeastern Minnesota Two types of wildfires can threaten your property. threatening homes or igniting new “spot” fires. The most important thing you can do is create risk to your home. See www.firewise.org for additional information about , LEAVES, Remove all dead leaves, branches, twigs, and needles still For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope and the brush is four feet tall,
and the brush is four feet tall, the separation distance
DEAD NEEDLES
70 ft.

Recommended Separation
u Use only inorganic mulch. (Rubber mulch is not acceptable for use.)
5. Water and keep grass mowed short (1-2”)
BRANCHES, AND TWIGS
property owners in wildfire-prone areas with practical tips for These are surface fires and crown fires. type they are. In general, trees with evergreen needles are more flammable defensible space, or a safety zone, immediately DOWN DEAD TREE Remove all down dead trees within the defensible space attached to living trees and shrubs to height of 15 feet the separation distance would be two times the shrub height or eight feet. The
would be two times the shrub height or eight feet.
recommended separation distance can be accomplished by removing plants or
Distances for Shrubs and
The recommended separation distance can be accom-
STANDING DEAD TREE
u Plant fire-resistant plants with high moisture content.
Remove all standing dead trees from within the defensible

6. Maintain your defensible space every year
Ground fuels include all combustible materials found
than broadleaved deciduous trees. This is because most needle-leaved
30 ft.
protecting their homes and businesses from wildfires through Surface fires move along the ground and burn dry materials lying on Landscape Zones Intensive Zone surrounding your home. Wildfire experts building materials and construction standards. area if they have recently fallen and are not yet embedded above ground. Remove all debris that accumulates on the through pruning that reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (short
plished by removing plants or through pruning that
30 ft.
Small Conifers
beneath the surface. Examples are deep duff, roots, and buried
space area.
reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (shorter
For areas with brush and small conifer trees, the recommended separation
the use of appropriate landscaping techniques, including the or immediately above it including tree limbs, grass, stumps, shrubs, leaves, evergreens typically (1) have leaves with lower moisture content, especially Extensive Zone divide defensible space into two zones: Building Materials into the ground. Downed trees that are embedded into roof and in rain gutters on a routine basis (at least once means less separation is neede
annually).
logs. Duff is the top surface layer of partly decayed leaves
height means less separation is needed). Removal
which readily resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best approach.
100 ft.
during drought, and (2) have sap containing flammable resins.
use of wildfire-resistant plants. This type of landscape design to and needles that accumulates under dense stands of large The Home Ignition Zone begins at the home and extends out as far as 100 to 200 soil and which cannot be removed without soil disturbance For areas with dense brush and small conifer trees,
100 ft.
works best for sagebrush. For shrubs which readily
should be left in place. Remove all exposed branches
DOWN DEAD TREE
Remove all down dead trees within the defensible space
distance is dependent upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific
FIREWOOD AND OTHER
prevent wildfire damage is referred to as Firewise Landscaping. pine needles and pine cones. Similar to crown fires, surface fires can 1. The Intensive Zone, 0-30 ft around buildings. from an embedded downed dead tree. Locate firewood and other combustible debris (wood resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best
brush or trees. Although slow to ignite, ground fuels can burn
the recommended separation distance is dependant
In northeastern Minnesota, the two most flammable tree species
throw burning embers, although not nearly as far. Surface fires can feet depending on the characteristics of adjacent lands. Maintaining the Home The home design, location, construction materials, and access all influence its scraps, grass clippings, leaf piles, etc.) at least 30 feet approach.
COMBUSTIBLE DEBRIS
General Management Zone
area if they have recently fallen and are not yet embedded
below the surface and be very hard to find and extinguish.
recommendations are presented below.
into the ground. Downed trees that are embedded into
The goal is to encourage local solutions for living more safely quickly surround a property and accelerate in vulnerable areas where are balsam fir and black spruce (see table below). Jack pine and Tree Species 2. The Extensive Zone, 30-100 ft around buildings. Flammability DEAD SHRUBS Remove all dead shrubs from within the defensible space uphill from the house. upon shrub height and steepness of slope. Specific
survivability during a wildland fire. The most exposed portion of your home
Flammability
Tree Species
recommendations are presented below.
Surface fuels include all materials resting on the surface
white spruce are also quite flammable, while white pine, red pine,
with wildfire threats by involving homeowners in taking brush is piled or where ladder fuels allow fire to reach tree canopies. Ignition Zone lean, clean and green reduces ignition risk and the fire spread area. soil and which cannot be removed without soil disturbance
or immediately above the ground. Examples are pine
Most Firewise work should be concentrated in the intensive zone,
and white cedar (arbor vitae) are somewhat less flammable.
DRIED GRASSES AND
potential. Within the Home Ignition Zone, a fire-resistant landscape can be
individual responsibility for preparing their properties to better They also can move quickly and cause great damage and injury when Neighbors participated in an educational Firewise Demonstration Day in Ely, MN Aspen with work proceeding outwards into the larger extensive zone. There Medium is the roof. A Class A roofing offers fire resistance and greatly improves the should be left in place. Remove all exposed branches
Once grasses and wildflowers have dried out or “cured,”
needles, leaves, grass, and downed woody materials.
Very Low
Eastern White Cedar
WILDFLOWERS
cut down and remove from the defensible space area.
survive wildfires. there is wind or steep terrain. After winters with little snow, spring likelihood of the structure surviving a wildland fire. The use of fire-resistant from an embedded downed dead tree.
Ladder fuels are material near the surface that can spread
Balsam Fir
Birch
Low
are six basic steps to creating a well- managed defensible space:
wildfires in tall, un-compacted grasses are a common form of surface created by reducing flammable fuels. These Landscape Zones within the Home Very High
fire into the crown of a tree. The most common ladder fuels in Reduce thick layers of pine needles to a depth of two
DEAD SHRUBS
Tamarack (Larch)
Very Low
Maple
Very Low building materials such as cement board siding, dual-pane windows, boxed in
fire in northeastern Minnesota. Ignition Zone can be used when selecting fire-resistant vegetation in fire-prone Low DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES, inches. Do not remove all needles. Take care not to Remove all dead shrubs from within the defensible space
Defensible Space Zones
northeastern Minnesota are balsam fir and spruce trees with live
1. Thin, Prune up to 10 ft (but not more than 1/3 of live
area.
Understanding Wildfire Crown fires burn through the canopy of forested areas either environments. Poplar crown) or remove conifer trees. Make sure crowns are at Very Low eaves, and metal screen (1/8” or less) covering vents reduces the probability of Note: Separation distances are measured between
or dead lower branches near the ground. Other examples include
Very Low
Bur Oak
disturb the “duff” layer (dark area at the ground surface
BRANCHES, CONES
(ON THE GROUND)
thick patches of blown-down trees or flammable shrubs.
where needles are decomposing) if present. Remove dead
Elm
Green Ash
canopies (outermost branches) and not between trunks.
Very Low
least 10 feet apart (intensive zone suggestion is at least 20
DRIED GRASSES AND
leaves, twigs, cones, and branches.
Once grasses and wildflowers have dried out or “cured,”
Fuels & Behavior independent from surface fuels or in addition to the surface fuels. Black Spruce feet between crowns or 30 feet between clusters of trees) Very Low ignition of one’s home. Make sure decks and fencing are in good repair and free For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope
Very High
Canopy fuels include all the green and dead vegetation in
Basswood
WILDFLOWERS
cut down and remove from the defensible space area.
Crown fires need a lot of heat energy from the surface fire, ladder fuels,
the forest canopy. The elevated position increases airflow to
DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES,
and the brush is four feet tall, the separation distance
White Spruce
Eastern Cottonwood
Very Low
High
Remove all dead leaves, branches, twigs, and needles still
the flame and increases wind exposure. When trees are densely
Protection of property from wildfire, and wind to get going. Individual trees often “torch”—called passive Landscape Zone 1: 0-5 feet if the structure has one-hour flame-resistant siding Low of clutter and debris. Remember, if it is attached to your house, it is part of your would be two times the shrub height or eight feet.
BRANCHES, AND TWIGS
2. Remove all understory ladder fuels (small balsam)
attached to living trees and shrubs to height of 15 feet
TYPES OF DEAD VEGETATION AND RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
Jack Pine
Reduce thick layers of pine needles to a depth of two
Peachleaf Willow
High
The recommended separation distance can be accom-
spaced or when there are many understory trees or shrubs, the
crown fire - but typically, this type of burning cannot be sustained for
(OTHER THAN ON THE GROUND)
above ground. Remove all debris that accumulates on the
roof and in rain gutters on a routine basis (at least once ,
requires a basic understanding of long. Active and independent crown fires create the most heat, the OR 0-10 feet if the structure has non-flame-resistant siding. In this zone, the Low house! Consider the use of metal gates and other non-flammable materials to plished by removing plants or through pruning that
DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES
fuel density can be high enough to sustain a crown fire.
3. Remove and minimize surface fuels
inches. Do not remove all needles. Take care not to
White Pine
Largetooth Aspen
Medium
reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (shorter
DEAD FUEL TYPE
annually). BRANCHES, CONES
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
disturb the “duff” layer (dark area at the ground surface
Red Pine
Medium
wildfire fuels and behavior. most smoke, and typically move quite rapidly. Because active and goal is to prevent ignitions on or near a structure. separate fences and decks from your home. Lawn furniture, decorations and height means less separation is needed). Removal Note: Separation distances are measured between
(thick pine needles, dead branches)
(ON THE GROUND)
works best for sagebrush. For shrubs which readily
where needles are decomposing) if present. Remove dead
independent crown fires require wind to get started, the potential 4. Create non-combustible borders around the FIREWOOD AND OTHER Locate firewood and other combustible debris (wood resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best canopies (outermost branches) and not between trunks.
leaves, twigs, cones, and branches.
STANDING DEAD TREE
Remove all standing dead trees from within the defensible
scraps, grass clippings, leaf piles, etc.) at least 30 feet
COMBUSTIBLE DEBRIS
exists for wind transport of embers over long distances, u Plant no trees or shrubs. base of your buildings. (3 to 5 ft from building) other flammable items may serve as receptor of firebrands and pose an increased approach.
For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope
uphill from the house.
space area.
Wildfire Fuel Types threatening homes or igniting new “spot” fires. 70 ft. risk to your home. See www.firewise.org for additional information about , LEAVES, Remove all dead leaves, branches, twigs, and needles still For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope and the brush is four feet tall,
and the brush is four feet tall, the separation distance
DEAD NEEDLES
u Use only inorganic mulch. (Rubber mulch is not acceptable for use.) BRANCHES, AND TWIGS attached to living trees and shrubs to height of 15 feet the separation distance would be two times the shrub height or eight feet. The
5. Water and keep grass mowed short (1-2”)
would be two times the shrub height or eight feet.
DOWN DEAD TREE
The recommended separation distance can be accom-
Intensive Zone
(OTHER THAN ON THE GROUND)
6. Maintain your defensible space every year
Ground fuels include all combustible materials found u Plant fire-resistant plants with high moisture content. building materials and construction standards. Remove all down dead trees within the defensible space above ground. Remove all debris that accumulates on the recommended separation distance can be accomplished by removing plants or
30 ft.
area if they have recently fallen and are not yet embedded
through pruning that reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (shorter height
plished by removing plants or through pruning that
beneath the surface. Examples are deep duff, roots, and buried 30 ft. into the ground. Downed trees that are embedded into roof and in rain gutters on a routine basis (at least once means less separation is needed). Removal works best for sagebrush. For shrubs
reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (shorter
logs. Duff is the top surface layer of partly decayed leaves 100 ft. Extensive Zone soil and which cannot be removed without soil disturbance annually). which readily resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best approach.
height means less separation is needed). Removal
and needles that accumulates under dense stands of large 100 ft. should be left in place. Remove all exposed branches works best for sagebrush. For shrubs which readily
FIREWOOD AND OTHER
brush or trees. Although slow to ignite, ground fuels can burn General Management Zone from an embedded downed dead tree. Locate firewood and other combustible debris (wood resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best
COMBUSTIBLE DEBRIS
below the surface and be very hard to find and extinguish. Remove all dead shrubs from within the defensible space scraps, grass clippings, leaf piles, etc.) at least 30 feet approach.
uphill from the house.
Surface fuels include all materials resting on the surface Tree Species Flammability Tree Species Flammability DEAD SHRUBS area.
or immediately above the ground. Examples are pine
needles, leaves, grass, and downed woody materials. Neighbors participated in an educational Firewise Demonstration Day in Ely, MN DRIED GRASSES AND Once grasses and wildflowers have dried out or “cured,”
Aspen Very Low Eastern White Cedar Medium
Ladder fuels are material near the surface that can spread Birch Low Balsam Fir Very High WILDFLOWERS cut down and remove from the defensible space area.
fire into the crown of a tree. The most common ladder fuels in
Maple Very Low Tamarack (Larch) Low Reduce thick layers of pine needles to a depth of two
northeastern Minnesota are balsam fir and spruce trees with live DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES, inches. Do not remove all needles. Take care not to
or dead lower branches near the ground. Other examples include Poplar Very Low Bur Oak Very Low BRANCHES, CONES disturb the “duff” layer (dark area at the ground surface Note: Separation distances are measured between
thick patches of blown-down trees or flammable shrubs. Elm Very Low Green Ash Very Low (ON THE GROUND) where needles are decomposing) if present. Remove dead canopies (outermost branches) and not between trunks.
Canopy fuels include all the green and dead vegetation in Black Spruce Very High Basswood Very Low leaves, twigs, cones, and branches. For example, if your home is located on a 10% slope
the forest canopy. The elevated position increases airflow to White Spruce High Eastern Cottonwood Very Low Remove all dead leaves, branches, twigs, and needles still and the brush is four feet tall, the separation distance
the flame and increases wind exposure. When trees are densely DEAD NEEDLES, LEAVES, attached to living trees and shrubs to height of 15 feet would be two times the shrub height or eight feet.
BRANCHES, AND TWIGS
spaced or when there are many understory trees or shrubs, the Jack Pine High Peachleaf Willow Low (OTHER THAN ON THE GROUND) above ground. Remove all debris that accumulates on the The recommended separation distance can be accom-
fuel density can be high enough to sustain a crown fire. White Pine Medium Largetooth Aspen Low roof and in rain gutters on a routine basis (at least once plished by removing plants or through pruning that
reduces the diameter or height of shrubs (shorter
Red Pine Medium annually). height means less separation is needed). Removal
works best for sagebrush. For shrubs which readily
FIREWOOD AND OTHER Locate firewood and other combustible debris (wood resprout, pruning to reduce height may be the best
COMBUSTIBLE DEBRIS scraps, grass clippings, leaf piles, etc.) at least 30 feet approach.
uphill from the house.