Time to be prepared for wildfire season

The recent fire in the Leviathan Mine Road and China Spring area reminds us of the need to be prepared for the unexpected. Preparing our homes and yards with the appropriate defensible space will not only help our homes survive but will also help the firefighters. Being prepared takes forethought and an awareness of your surroundings prior to a fire. We live in an area prone to wildfires so we need to be as proactive as possible. The preparation will not only help us get to safety faster, it may also minimize damage and loss of life.

What can we do as individuals? The first thing is to clear at least a 30-foot space around your home and get rid of the flammable plants such as sage, juniper, pinion pine, dried grasses, dead trees, etc. If you have a large lot, it is also suggested to thin the vegetation up to 100 feet away from all structures. These suggestions are for lots that are level and must be adjusted for sloping lots. The wood for your woodstove or fireplace should also be at least 30 feet from the home. Our East Fork Fire & Paramedic Districts has information at their office in the Minden Inn that will help you plan a safe zone around your home.

Electrical fires can be very devastating since they may be smoldering for a long time before igniting. Arcing faults are a major cause of these types of fires. An arc is what we see when we unplug an appliance that is still on. It can occur in older, deteriorating wiring or if a nail accidentally hits a wire. Mice can even cause it by chewing through the wires. There is an arc fault circuit interrupter that monitors arcs in the wiring and shuts down the circuit if an "arcing fault" is detected. They are designed to allow the more usual types of arcing such as pulling a cord out of a wall or turning on a light switch. An electrician should install these as they go directly into the main electrical panel. 

Having a plan prior to the event will also help prevent panic. Practicing an evacuation plan with your children will not only educate them as to potential dangers but may actually save their lives. Children, senior citizens, and those with disabilities need special consideration and prior to the event is when we need to be thinking about who to call, where to go, how to get there, etc. Don't forget about the pets. Who will transport your horses, alpacas, goats, etc., if you are not home when the fire breaks out?

Congratulations to Rhiannon Broersma, Luc Rudarte, Adrian Marquez, and Brandon Irvine for being hired as seasonal firefighters in the district. They will be part of the initial responders to any wildfire event. They are exceptional firefighters and will do a great job protecting us.

The Ruhenstroth Volunteer Fire Department's annual barbecue will be on from 4 p.m. to midnight July 11. It is always a fun evening where neighbors can get together, make new friends and dance the night away. Randy and Theresa Daggs, Dyno-Mic Duo, will return after a two-year absence to play the music and entertain everyone.

Reach Gail Davis at RuhenstrothRamblings@yahoo.com or 265-1947