It is now fire season in California. Santa Cruz County has experienced a very dry winter and hazardous fire conditions exist in some areas. In an effort to minimize the dangers of fire to area homes, “Defensible Space” inspections will be conducted throughout the county. This will be a joint effort between CAL FIRE, Central Fire Protection District and Aptos La Selva Fire Protection District.
Defensible space is an area around a building where the vegetation has been modified to create a natural fire break. This space may prevent fire from spreading from burning vegetation to your home. It also creates a safe area for firefighters to defend a home against fire. A modified area of vegetation is required by section 429 of the California Public Resources Code. It is also an important factor in protecting your home from wildfires.
In the next few weeks, a fire inspector from any of the participating fire agencies may contact you. You will be provided with information to create an effective defensible space for your property. If you are not at home during the inspection, you may receive a “Notice of Fire Hazard Inspection”. This will identify steps that you may need to take to improve the fire safety around your home.
For more specific information about defensible space and rural fire safety, you can visit www.centralfpd.com or www.fire.ca.gov. You can also contact your local fire department.