According to Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, the key is removing everything fire would view as a fuel source. This will help create a zone around the home to help slow flames, should a fire start, and potentially direct it elsewhere. Take these steps within 30 feet of most houses, 50-100 feet if it's a heavily wooded area:
- Eliminate fuel sources like dry landscaping, woodpiles and decks.
- Prune trees and shrubs.
- Trim taller trees so lowest branch is no less than six feet from the ground.
- Remove dead leaves and branches from the yard.
- Clear branches from around the roof and chimney.
- Mow lawn regularly and dispose promptly of cuttings and debris.
- Clear roof, gutters and eaves of debris.
- Maintain your irrigation system.
- Move firewood and storage tanks 50 feet away from the home.
- Store flammable liquids properly.
Homeowners about to begin a landscaping project can increase their protection by introducing more native vegetation and spacing trees at least 10 feet apart. And if a facelift is being planned for a home's exterior, use only non-combustible materials on the roof, walls, eaves, soffits, and fascia.
Protect Your South Carolina Home From Wildfires
Farm Bureau Insurance has treated our South Carolina members as part of the family since 1955. Because of that, we want to help protect you from natural disasters, like wildfires. Following the 10 tips listed above are one line of your defense, we are another. Speak with a local agent to discuss your homeowner's policy and to make sure you have adequate protection against a wildfire. If you have suffered a loss of your home to fire, please call our Customer Service Call Center any time – day or night. We will be here to quickly and fairly settle your claim.