Homer News
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Smoky Bear was right on fire prevention: It's really up to you
Editorial
The Homestead Fire, which as of Wednesday morning had burned about 300 acres in the Happy Valley area, is a timely reminder of fire danger as the Kenai Peninsula heads into Memorial Day weekend.
While the cause of the fire is still under investigation at this writing, the experts say most fires on the peninsula are human caused. This time of year can be particularly dangerous with fires starting readily and spreading quickly through the dry grasses. Attention to detail can go a long way in helping to prevent fires and in protecting homes and property in the event a wildfire does break out.
One of the first things that can be done to reduce fire danger is to abide by the rules. Currently, that means not burning including in barrels until the Division of Forestry lifts the suspension on open burning for the western peninsula. When burning is allowed, it means getting a permit and adhering to the terms of the permit.
Next, check any burn piles that were ignited during the winter or earlier this spring to make sure they are completely out. Smoke may not be visible, but the ash pit may be hot and several feet deep. Put out any hot pile by opening the pit and applying water.
If you're planning on camping this Memorial Day weekend, please use caution when building your campfire. The fire should be located in a dirt area within a fire ring, away from all vegetation, including grass, moss and peat. Have water near the fire and attend the fire until it is completely out. Do not light a fire during windy conditions. The state Division of Forestry reminds people that they may be subject to criminal penalties if they light a fire that escapes their control due to inadequate preparedness.
Much can be done to protect homes and cabins from wildfire, as last year's Caribou Hills fire proved. Many structures with cleared, defensible space around them survived that fire; those without defensible space did not.
For people wanting to make their homes more "Firewise," help is available. FireWise is a program that promotes creating defensible space on an individual and communitywide level. This year, some grant-funded FireWise teams are making house calls across the peninsula to show residents how they can better protect their homes from wildfire. The visits are free and can be arranged by calling the Alaska Division of Forestry at (907) 260-4262.
This time of year is perfect for implementing Firewise landscaping techniques, starting with removing any dead grass that is around your home. While tall, dead grass can be fuel to a fire, the right plants can help protect your home from fire. Plants that start from bulbs, including lilies, irises and tulips, are good examples. These plants have fleshy leaves that hold water and won't spread fire. Among other things, you also should stack firewood and scrap wood piles at least 30 feet from any structure.
When it comes to wildfire, Ben Franklin's adage applies perfectly: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. The ounce of prevention in the case of wildfire is simple: using common sense, following the rules and taking advantage of programs like FireWise. Let's work to make the southern peninsula's first wildfire of the season its last one.