Use of Non-Combustible Roofs and Other Fireproofing Measures Minimizes Damage CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With thousands of California residents already besieged by the recent onslaught of forest and brush fires, thousands more still have the opportunity to help minimize the potential devastation to their homes. Advance planning and preparation can help protect your home and minimize the damage caused by fires. “Most people don’t realize that there are many things they can do to safeguard their home from serious damage due to wildfires, storms and even earthquakes,” says Jeanne Sheehy, managing director for TRI. “Taking just a few precautionary measures can go a long way to helping homeowners minimize the damage that can occur from these kinds of natural disasters.” The Tile Roofing Institute (TRI), the leading resource and proponent of concrete and clay tile roof systems, offers this check-list for homeowners. Short-term tactics Defensible Space: Defensible space is the area around a home, which is planted and maintained to provide a buffer zone against wildfire, and to provide firefighters access and room to protect the home. The width of acceptable defensible area depends on the steepness of the slope and the type of vegetation adjacent to the home. The steeper the slope and the heavier the vegetation the wider the defensible space needed. Under optimum conditions the minimum width should not be less than 30 feet. In some extreme instances this width could be as much as 300 feet. Fire departments and local nurseries can provide more detailed information and a list of fire-resistant plants for landscaping needs. Home Maintenance: Maintaining the exterior of your home can greatly reduce the risk of fire. Roofs and gutters should be cleaned regularly. Trees and shrubs should be kept pruned, and dried vegetation and debris should be cleared away from foundations and underneath decks. Smoke Alarms: Interior smoke alarms are one of the most inexpensive ways to protect family and home from fire. Smoke detectors should be installed on every level of the home, next to bedrooms and tested monthly.
