Protect your business against wildfires

Nearly every state has been devastated by the effects of wildfires in the United States. On average, over 140,000 wildfires occur each year, burning millions of acres and destroying hundreds of homes and businesses. Once a wildfire has begun, there is little firefighters can do to protect property. There are measures that can help reduce the potential loss when put in place before the fire. Following are several basic fire safety measures that can help protect your employees, buildings, inventory, equipment and other assets from injury or damage.

Roof:

  1. Clear roof surfaces and gutters regularly to avoid accumulation of leaves, twigs, pine needles and other combustible debris.
  2. Remove all overhanging branches within 10 feet of the roof.
  3. Ensure that roofing materials meet fire resistant classification of "Class C" or better.
  4. Cover chimney outlets with a non-flammable spark arrester (contact your local fire department for exact specifications).

Yard and Landscaping:

  1. Maintain the grounds surrounding your facility to minimize combustible materials such as storage, vegetation and refuse.
  2. Mow and water grass regularly.
  3. Remove dead and dying vegetation, collect and dispose of clippings safely.
  4. Remove tree limbs located 10 - 15 feet above the ground.
  5. Trim trees so that the crown edges are 15 feet apart.
  6. Remove vines from buildings, fences or other structures.
  7. Request the Utility Company clear branches and vegetation from power lines.

Access:

  1. Maintain access for emergency vehicles to your facility. Keep a minimum 12 foot wide roads with a 15 foot overhead clearance.
  2. Gates should open inward and wide enough to accommodate emergency equipment.
  3. All roads, streets and buildings should be identified by name or number on non-combustible signs that are clearly visible from the roadway.

Emergency Response Planning:

  1. Establish a documented Emergency Response Plan and keep it up to date.
  2. Plan several evacuation routes in the event the wildfire blocks the primary egress.
  3. Hold evacuation drills at least twice annually.
  4. Ensure clear access to water sources such as hydrants, streams and ponds for the fire department.

For additional information, please contact one of the following Lumbermen's Underwriting Alliance representatives:

Jamie Trenter VP, - Western Region
Lumberman's Underwriting Alliance
6915 SW Macadam Ave Suite 100
Portland, OR 97219-2381
503-977-1030

or

Steve Ottenbrite, District Manager
Lumberman's Underwriting Alliance
11344 Coloma Rd Suite 680
Gold River, CA 95670-4464
916-638-3747

DROUGHT: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines drought as a sufficiently prolonged period of abnormally dry weather. The lack of rain causes crop damage and water supply shortages in the affected area. Drought conditions can adversely affect our homes and businesses. During extended periods of drought wild and brush fire activity rises.