STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-September 28, 2020-With wildland fires burning across much of Colorado, including the nearly 8,000-acre Middle Fork Fire, ten miles north of Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue would like to remind homeowners that their best defense against a wildland fire is a good offense, namely preparedness.
“With many of us living where wildfires are a real risk, homeowners need to use every option available to be prepared against a wildfire,” commented Fire Chief Chuck Cerasoli. “And that literally starts at your front door and moves out from your home.”
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), research shows that most homes ignite during a wildfire as a result of embers or small flames, which can be carried more than a mile. Experiments, models and post-fire studies revealed homes ignite due to the condition of the home and everything around it, up to 200’ from the foundation.
“While we can’t eliminate fire, we can interrupt a wildfire’s path and keep flames smaller and on the ground around our residences and outbuildings,” continued Cerasoli. “These steps can significantly increase the chances of a home surviving.”
NFPA provides recommended steps that homeowners can take to reduce the risk, with the most important efforts occurring on and immediately around the home. Property owners can make their homes safer and more defensible from wildfires by addressing vegetation, home access/layout and preparedness. The HIZ Checklist provides simple steps from your roof to your foundation to make your home safer from embers and radiant heat.
In an emergency, minutes matter and Routt County Alerts is your way to be notified of incidents from severe weather to road closures to wildfires and possible evacuation orders, resources and vital information during an emergency. Sign up HERE so that emergency personnel can reach you when it matters most.
Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue highly recommends putting together an emergency ‘Go Bag’ for each family member in advance. Your ‘Go Bag’ should be easily accessible at a moment’s notice. Check out additional tips on the Wildfire Evacuation Checklist.
“If there is only one think you can do, make that signing up for Routt County Alerts,” remarked Chief Cerasoli. “If we can’t reach you, we can’t alert you and that could really be a matter of life or death.”
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Contact
Chuck Cerasoli, Fire Chief, 970.879.7170 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email