Wildfire

Much of the Southwest is considered a high-hazard fire environment. Based on recent history and experience, these areas possess all of the ingredients necessary to support large, intense and uncontrollable wildfires. Within this hazardous environment are individual houses, subdivisions and entire communities. Many homeowners, however, are ill-prepared to survive an intense wildfire. It is not a question of "if" a wildfire will occur but when. As such, the odds of losing human life and property are growing.

Our ability to live more safely in this fire environment depends on pre-fire activities. These are actions taken before a wildfire occurs that improve the survivability of people and homes. The National Firewise Communities/USA program administered by the State Forester helps communities to pursue a comprehensive approach to having a Firewise community.

The look of our Southwestern forests has changed dramatically during the Twentieth Century. In many instances trees are smaller but are far more numerous. This situation has led to destructive fires in recent years. The build-up of fuel coupled with recent insect and disease outbreaks has greatly increased potential for severe wildfires. Climatic factors such as drought and warmer temperatures also play a role.

See the Living with Wildfire; Homeowner's Firewise Guide for Arizona (pdf - 12 MB file) for more information about defensible space and how to protect your home from ignition during a wildfire. You can also visit the Arizona Firewise (outside link) for more information.

To request a site visit to your home and/or property to determine its risk of ignition and for specific suggestions on what you can do to reduce your risk, please contact our office.