The winter and spring rains result in a lot of vegetation around the Valley. But as temperatures climb, the vegetation dries out… and becomes a serious fire risk. Don’t let your home or property fall victim to a brush fire. Be sure to maintain your property and landscaping in a fire-wise condition.
• Keep weeds and grass cut. The Phoenix City Code prohibits grass in excess of six inches and weeds over twelve inches.
• Remove dead and piled up vegetation, and dispose of it properly.
• Properly dispose of trash and debris. Piles of refuse such as old furniture, boxes and pallets are fires waiting to happen. Even old cars can burn!
• Stack firewood away from structures, fences or anything else that may be combustible.
• Conduct regular maintenance to reduce the opportunity for brush fires.
• Remove low hanging branches. Also, remove tree limbs around chimneys.
• Keep the roof clear. Sweep gutters and eaves, and wash the roof on a regular basis to get rid of dry needles and leaves.
• Control the height of ground vegetation and mow the grass often.
• Remove dead and accumulated vegetation, and dispose of it properly.
• Provide enough water to keep plants healthy and green. Keep irrigation systems in good working order.
• Top trees only when necessary as topping creates too many lower branches that can increase the fire danger.
• Store and use flammable liquids properly.
• ALWAYS dispose of cigarettes carefully