Thriving trees and landscapes are beautiful, but when wildfires strike, the damage left behind can be unfathomable. Many folks across the country reside in fire-prone regions but figure nothing can be done to stop a natural event from occurring. But what many don’t realize is that about 70,000 wildfires are recorded yearly in the United States, and interestingly, 85% of these out-of-control blazes are caused by humans. Tree care experts suggest that vegetation management can contribute to a more fire-resistant environment and mitigate wildfire risks for communities of various sizes and topographies.

Ensuring Safer Surroundings

In addition to providing tree trimming, tree removal, storm cleanup and other key services, some tree companies are highly skilled in fire prevention for safer communities. Their expert arborists can recommend the removal of dead trees, overgrown shrubs and dry grasses that pose a serious fire hazard. By using fire mitigation strategies, tree care companies believe they can promote safer surroundings for your property and neighborhood.

Creating Defensible Spaces

One of the fire prevention methods is defining defensible spaces. These are buffer zones that can be created around a home or commercial building where vegetation has been managed to decrease the wildfire threat. The mission of a defensible space is twofold. It’s designed to give a house or other building better odds of surviving such an event and allows firefighters ample space to defend the area during a wildfire. A professional tree care company will generally recommend creating a defensible space buffer extending about 100 feet.

Outreach and Educating Communities

Another strategy of tree care companies proficient in fire prevention safety is to develop solid relationships in a town or city. These pros have tremendous resources in fire-safe landscaping practices and will spread this knowledge to property owners. They can recommend ways to reduce vulnerability to wildfires.

For instance, homes close together in dense neighborhoods create an increased risk of building-to-building ignition if a neighbor’s house is on fire. To lessen the possibility of homes igniting each other, thinning trees and shrubs between homes would be one good fire prevention tactic.

There are also plants property owners can purchase that are more fire-resistant than others. Arborists can provide solid recommendations.

Wildfires do not blaze only in Southern California. They can be found all over the United States. Tree care companies today see the immense value in tree management and fire mitigation approaches. Property owners want safety, peace of mind and enjoyment of their natural surroundings.

If you’re living in picturesque Woodside, CA, contact Urban Tree Management for fire prevention services.