Firewise helps boost fire prevention knowledge

Communities that want to boost their defenses against wildfires and increase their knowledge about ways to help prevent fires can participate in the Firewise program sponsored by the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Kiley Moran, wildland urban interface coordinator for the forest service who is based in McGregor, spoke to the Coryell County Commissioners Court about the Firewise program.

"Firewise is a national program, and it is recognized by some insurance agencies which may give discounts for communities that participate," Moran said. "It's a community-level program, and individuals can get together and decide they want to have a Firewise community.

"What it entails – it adheres to certain standards set by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) for structures or buildings."

Moran said groups that want to become Firewise communities and do so at neighborhood or small-town levels.

"The goal of Firewise is to put a strategy in place to prepare communities and homes for wildfires," he said. "There were a lot of wildfires that happened this year, and many came close to houses in local communities."

Moran praised the dedication and skill of the firefighters serving Coryell County.

"You are very fortunate to have such a great group of local firefighters with support from those outside the area," he said.

Part of the emphasis of Firewise is to create zones around structures in which flammable materials, such as firewood, are moved away from the immediate proximity of homes. The standards also specify where certain types of shrubs and trees should be placed.

"It helps set standards to work towards," Moran said. "We also want to make sure that siding (on houses) is fire resistant, as well as the roof. Having a roof that is in good shape is very important."

He said that all openings in a home should be covered by screens to help prevent fires, and to remove dry leaves for your yard that could help fuel a fire.

"An ember shower can put out (flammable sparks) two miles ahead of a fire," Moran said.

"Becoming a Firewise community can help you prepare a little bit better," he said.