Historically, wildfire “seasons” were a four-month event in the middle of summer. Today, the average core wildfire season is 78 days longer than in the 1970’s.
As Fire Prevention Week approaches from October 6-12, it's the perfect time for Westchester County residents to review critical fire safety practices. From tips on reducing fire hazards around your property to creating an effective family evacuation plan, local resources and experts are here to assist. In this article, we’ll cover key fire safety measures for both inside and outside the home and share valuable resources all Westchester County residents should be aware of.
Wildfire Prevention Tips for Your Westchester County Home
Wildfires have become a growing concern, destroying 3,060 homes in the United States just last year. While this may sound overwhelming, the positive news is that there are plenty of ways to reduce wildfire risk for your home—especially in wildfire-prone areas.
- Clear Defensible Space Around Your Home. Creating a defensible space is one of the most effective wildfire prevention strategies. This involves clearing the area around your home of flammable materials—such as dry leaves, brush, and debris. Maintain a buffer zone of at least 30 feet by keeping the grass trimmed and trees pruned. This defensible space can slow the spread of a fire and give firefighters more time to protect your home.
- Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials. The materials used to build your home can make a significant difference in how well it withstands wildfires. Opt for fire-resistant materials like metal, tile, or asphalt shingles for your roof, and consider using non-combustible siding options such as stucco, stone, or brick. Fire-resistant materials can prevent embers from igniting your home during a wildfire.
- Install Spark Arresters. Chimneys, vents, and other openings can act as entry points for embers during a wildfire. Installing spark arresters can help prevent embers from entering your home through these areas. Additionally, regularly cleaning gutters and vents to remove leaves and other debris will reduce the chance of a fire starting from airborne embers.
- Keep Firewood and Flammable Materials Away from Structures. Firewood, propane tanks, and other flammable materials should be stored at least 30 feet away from your home. Storing these materials too close to your house can increase the risk of a fire spreading to your property if ignited by a wildfire. Keep your woodpile on a flat, non-combustible surface to further minimize risk.
- Invest in a Wildfire Emergency Kit. Be prepared for the worst by putting together a wildfire emergency kit. This kit should include essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and important documents. Being prepared can make evacuating your home quicker and safer in the event of a wildfire.
House Fire Prevention
House fires are more common than many people realize, with unattended cooking being the #1 leading cause of disaster. The good news is that house fires are highly preventable; and by following a few key safety measures, you can protect your home and loved ones from fire hazards.
- Install Smoke Alarms. Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in a house fire. Ensure you have smoke alarms installed on every floor of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them often and replace the batteries at least once a year. Working smoke alarms can cut the risk of injury in a home fire in half.
- Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan. Having a well-rehearsed fire escape plan can save lives. Make sure every family member knows two ways to escape from each room and agrees on a meeting spot outside the home. Practice the plan regularly, so everyone knows exactly what to do if a fire occurs.
- Keep Electrical Systems in Check. Electrical fires are one of the leading causes of house fires. Ensure your home's electrical system is up to code and have it inspected by a professional if you notice any flickering lights or frayed wires. Avoid overloading outlets, and be sure to unplug appliances when they’re not in use to reduce the risk of fire.
- Use Space Heaters Safely. While space heaters can keep your home cozy during colder months, they can also be a fire hazard if not used correctly. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding, or furniture. Always turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to sleep.
- Never Leave Cooking Unattended. Cooking fires are the leading cause of house fires. Whether you’re using the stove, oven, or grill, never leave your cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like towels and wooden utensils away from the stove, and always have a fire extinguisher within reach in case of an emergency.
- Properly Store Flammable Materials. Household items like cleaning supplies, gasoline, and paints can be flammable. Store these materials in their original containers in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Make sure they are out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental fires or injury.
- Install Fire Extinguishers. Fire extinguishers are an essential tool for putting out small fires before they spread. Install extinguishers in key areas such as the kitchen, garage, and workshop, and make sure everyone in the household knows how to use them. Regularly check the pressure gauge and replace extinguishers when needed.
Local Resources and Fire Department Support
Westchester County provides valuable resources through its local fire departments to help residents better prepare for fires. You can find detailed information about home fire prevention, escape planning, and available support from local fire safety programs by visiting your local fire department’s website and checking out the sites below:
Katonah Fire Department Open House
Saturday Oct. 12 from 10 am to 2pm
New York State Fire Safety Tips: Website
American Red Cross, NY: Website
Westchester County Emergency Services: Website
By following these tips and using local resources, you can significantly improve your home’s safety and ensure you're well-prepared in the event of a fire.
