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Fire Safety Tips for Rural Living in Wisconsin | SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties
8/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!
Living in rural Wisconsin offers a unique lifestyle with vast landscapes and serene surroundings. However, rural areas also present specific challenges when it comes to fire safety, especially during the summer months.
Here are some essential tips to prioritize fire safety and protect your home and property in Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties.
Rural areas are often surrounded by forests, fields, and grasslands, increasing the risk of wildfires, especially during dry, hot summer days. To prevent wildfires, create a defensible space around your property by clearing dry vegetation and debris at least 30 feet away from buildings. Regularly mow lawns and trim trees to reduce fuel for fires. Keep gutters, roofs, and yards clear of pine needles, leaves, and other flammable materials that can ignite easily.
Have an emergency evacuation plan in place and ensure all family members know how to evacuate safely if a wildfire approaches. Keep important documents, medications, and emergency supplies in a ready-to-go bag in case of evacuation orders.
Summer in rural Wisconsin often includes outdoor activities like grilling and bonfires. When grilling, place the grill in a clear, open area away from structures, dry grass, and overhanging branches. Use propane and charcoal grills with caution, following manufacturer’s instructions and keeping a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby for emergencies. Never leave a grill unattended, especially when children or pets are nearby.
For bonfires, check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Create a designated fire pit area away from buildings and vegetation. Keep a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby to extinguish the fire completely before leaving it unattended. Avoid burning trash or leaves, as sparks can easily ignite surrounding dry vegetation.
Maintaining your home and addressing electrical safety is crucial in rural areas where power outages and electrical surges are more common. Inspect and clean chimneys, wood stoves, and fireplaces annually to prevent chimney fires. Install and regularly test smoke detectors in every room of your home, replacing batteries at least once a year.
Inspect electrical outlets, cords, and appliances for wear and damage regularly. Avoid overloading circuits, especially during storms or heat waves when electrical systems may be strained. Use surge protectors for sensitive electronics and consider investing in a whole-house surge protector to safeguard against electrical fires.
Living in rural Wisconsin offers tranquility and natural beauty, but it’s essential to prioritize fire safety to protect your home, property, and community. By implementing these fire safety tips—preventing wildfires, practicing safe outdoor activities, and maintaining electrical safety—you can enjoy a safe and worry-free summer season.
Contact SERVPRO of Barron, Dunn & Rusk Counties for more information on fire safety or if you need assistance with fire damage restoration. Let’s work together to keep our rural communities safe and thriving this summer.