|
Wildfires - Are you Prepared? Forest Fire Preparedness Urgent Bulletin - Wildfires Fact Sheet - Forest Fires John Morrison - Wildfire Tour Be prepared in case of wildfire The threat of forest fires is a real concern this year because the state has received so little moisture. The fear of wildfires is compounded by the fact that last summer they burned nearly one million acres of land and about 320 homes in Montana. Wildfires devastated nearly everything in their paths, but the people hurt most were those who didn't have insurance. Now, before fire hits, is the time to make sure you have appropriate insurance. There are different levels and types of insurance. A basic homeowner's policy covers some fire damage including:
Your coverage needs vary depending on factors including the type of home or building you own, its contents and whether you have a home-based business. Talk to your agent about the coverage that is best for you and tailor a policy to meet your needs. If you already have fire coverage, check your policy and talk to your agent to make sure you have the proper coverage. Although insurance can provide some security for your family, fire prevention should be your most important consideration. There are a number of things you can do to make your home more fire resistant. The insurance company won't reimburse you directly for any of the improvements. However, adding fire resistant features may entitle you to discounts on future insurance premiums that would help to defray your costs over time. No matter where you live, the roof of your house will be highly vulnerable to outside sources of fire. Generally speaking, homeowners should consider using fire-resistant building materials for any exterior building or remodeling project. Homes built in a wooded area should have a safety zone of 100 feet. Clear and dispose of trees, leaves, twigs, pine needles and rubbish within 100 feet of any structure on your property. Overhanging tree branches should be trimmed regularly because they can be ignited from a nearby fire. Remove dead branches promptly and clear away all branches that are within 15 feet of a chimney. Clean all dead leaves and needles from your roof and gutters. For added protection, cover chimney and stovepipe vents with nonflammable screens of one-half inch or smaller mesh. To cut down on glass breakage from external fires, install dual- or triple-paned windows. Also, be aware that burning shrubs or underbrush as many as 50 feet away from a window can start a fire through the glass. Speaking of distance, firewood and butane or propane tanks should be located at least 30 feet from all flammable structures and uphill from them, if possible. Inside your home, properly maintained smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are your best defense, and fire alarm and sprinkler systems are also options. Consider placing a fire extinguisher in exterior areas such as the garage, a workshop or any outlying buildings. If you do not have access to a community water system or other adequate water source, consider sharing the cost of a water storage tank with neighbors or purchase one on your own. Garden hoses should be long enough to reach all areas of the home and any other structures on the property. Exercising good maintenance habits in the area surrounding your home will provide some protection if a fire breaks out nearby. Before deciding on additional fire safety measures, talk with your insurance agent. Knowing what insurance discounts may be available will help you get the most fire protection for your money. |
||
|
Please contact the State Auditor’s Office if you have additional questions:
|
