While preparing your organization for a wildfire, you may have heard of “defensible space.” But what does it really mean?
Defensible space is the buffer you create around your building to reduce the risk of wildfire spreading to your facility. This space involves a few key zones where you clear vegetation and make changes to protect your building. Experts recommend breaking defensible space into three zones:
The Immediate Zone is 0 to 5 feet or 1.5 meters from your building, including the building itself— think of this area as the “shield” zone. Harden your building by closing any gaps where fire embers might enter, use materials that resist heat and flames, and keep the area clear by removing plants and anything else that could catch fire near walls, decks, and roofs.
The Intermediate Zone is 5 to 30 feet or 1.5 to 9 meters around your building. This is the area where you slow down and break up a fire’s path. Trim grass regularly, keep some distance between shrubs and trees, and divide large areas of vegetation with sidewalks or gravel paths to function as “fuel breaks.”
The Extended Zone is 30 to 200 feet or 9 to 60 meters from your building or to the property line. In this final zone, your goal is to keep the fire low and manageable – thin out vegetation and create gaps between trees so fire can’t spread through them.
These steps follow international best practices but always check with your local fire department for any specific guidance or requirements in your area.
Thank you for your interest in the Ready Rating Program, and your commitment to building a safer, more prepared organization!