Colorado's rural areas are undergoing increasingly greater development and more people are building homes in forest or brush land environments. Often, these sites are quite remote and at risk for fire danger. Homeowners should do an ANNUAL maintenance to prepare their property for wildfire:
·Thin trees and brush properly within the defensible space.
·Remove trash and debris from the defensible space.
·Remove any trees growing through the porch.
·Clear roof and gutters of leaves and debris.
·Remove branches overhanging chimney and roof.
·Stack firewood uphill or on a contour away from the home.
·Use noncombustible roof materials.
·Place shutters, fire curtains or heavy drapes on windows.
·Place screens on foundation and eave vents.
·Enclose sides of stilt foundations and decks.
·Use a chimney screen or spark arrester.
·Clear vegetation around fire hydrants, cisterns, propane tanks, etc.
·Make sure an outdoor water supply is available, with hose, nozzle and pump.
·Make sure fire tools, ladder and fire extinguishers are available.
·Post address signs that are clearly visible from the street or road.
·Make sure the driveway is wide enough for fire trucks and equipment.
·Post load limits on bridges.
·Install and test smoke detectors.
·Practice a family fire drill and evacuation plan.
For more detailed information, see fact sheet Forest Home Fire Safety.

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