More than 2 million Coloradoans live in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) – which is an area where man-made improvements are built close to, or within, natural terrain and flammable vegetation, and where high potential for wildland fire exists.

Annual Tasks to Create a Defensible Space

Research confirms that proactive wildfire mitigation is effective. Now is as good of a time as ever to review wildfire preparedness resources, and do chores to mitigate the fire hazard around your home and on your property.

• Clear roof, deck, and gutters of pine needles and other debris.
• Mow grass and weeds to a height of 6 inches or less.
• Rake all pine needles and other flammable debris away from the foundation of your home and deck.
• Remove trash and debris accumulations from the defensible space.
• Check fire extinguishers to ensure that they are not expired and are in good working condition.
• Check chimney screens to make sure they are in place and in good condition
• Remove branches that overhang the roof and chimney.
• Dispose of slash from tree/shrub thinning.
• Garden with Fire Resistant Plants
• More FireWise Plant Materials for landscape planning

View our full Fire Wise Landscaping presentation

Be Prepared for Wildfire or Natural Disasters

Here are some resources to help you get prepared for wildfire and other natural disasters.

• FEMA Checklist for Homeowners
• Home Ignition Zone Guide by the Colorado State Forest Service
• CSU Extension Wildfire Resources
• Living with Fire
• Financial Emergency Prep
• Emergency Preparedness for Kids
• Prepare your Pets for Emergency
• Caring for Livestock Before Disaster
• Clear Creek Fire Authority
• Firewise Resources: Residents Reducing Wildfire Risks
• Colorado State Forest Service: Protect your home, property, and forest from wildfire
• Rotary Wildfire Ready
• Article: Report highlights what state needs to do after historic wildfires [2020]
• Colorado 2020 Wildfires Webinar series replays on the Southern Rockies Fire Science Network YouTube channel.
• Article: Colorado Public Radio, Wildfires Are Ravaging The West. Research Shows The People In Their Paths Vastly Underestimate The Risk

Understanding Drought Conditions

• Drought.gov Intermountain West Region
• NOAA.gov Snowpack Melt Study
• Current Drought Conditions by the Colorado Climate Center.