How Does Defensible Space Work?

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

During late summer and early fall it is not uncommon to experience many thunder storms in Central Oregon. With thunder comes lightening. Though thrilling to watch, lightening is also very dangerous and unpredictable. It's impossible to pin point where lightening is going to strike, but similar to any other type of unpredictable weather pattern, we can take preventative measures to minimize the possibility of any damage. 

Defensible space can make a significant difference during a wildfire and protect from embers that can travel several miles from the actual fire front and the fire itself. According to the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal, "embers are the leading cause of home loss during a wildfire. They can travel up to three miles ahead of the large flame front."

Defensible space is the buffer a property owner can create between the home or business and the grass, trees, shrubs, or any other wildland area that surrounds it. The best defense is to clean areas such as gutters, eaves and around a chimney where combustibles like dry pine needles may settle. 

If a wildfire is within the area, it is important to keep patios dry and remove any flammable items like outdoor furniture cushions and any combustibles that may ignite if coming in contact with an ember. Proper planning now can be the difference between suffering a catastrophic loss in the future.