Prevent fires/burns: Place space heaters at least 3ft away from everything. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.

Clean your roofs and gutters of debris annually, if not bi-annually. Keep a ladder and garden hose that can reach your roof. Chimneys must be inspected and cleaned bi-annually. Build a firebreak or gap in combustible material as a barrier around your house, like a river, lake, canyon, road or highway. Consult your local fire department and work with an experienced contractor who is familiar with the fire issues in your area.

Plant fire resistant trees and shrubs. Consult your home improvement social network for their landscape ideas for your locale. Remove branches that are below 10 feet high. Clear away dry and damaged vegetation or tree limbs which are fire fuel.

Purchase fire extinguishers that can handle a variety of fire types and place them in easily accessible places. With your household, make an easily executable fast evacuation plan complete with post evacuation meet up locations. Prepare ‘go bags” or a bag with a change or two of clothes, important papers, water and any necessary medication for all members of your household.

Though parts of these tasks are part of home maintenance, they are absolutely imperative for areas that are endangered by fire concerns. Even if you do not live in a fire prone area, maintain a safe interior. Finally, all smoke detectors, regardless of type, should be replaced every 8 to 10 years to ensure optimal operation.