The brush fire season is here…

Winter rains and spring sunshine have created an abundance of non-native grasses and weeds. As temperatures rise, the grasses will dry out and become potential fuel for a wildfire.

In Fountain Hills there are many homes that abut the Sonoran Desert or washes with natural vegetation.

Now is the time to create a 30-foot “defensible space” around the home by pulling out weeds and removing other fire fuel. Buffel grass is the most prevalent of the non-native grasses that is highly flammable and can quickly carry a fire onto residential property.

Rural/Metro Fire Department has some tips for clearing away debris to create a fire-free area.

*Remove all dead, dry plants and weeds from within 30 feet of the home.

*Create a “defensible space” or firebreak around the home so firefighters can protect the structure from advancing flames.

*Be mindful of wild grasses, overgrown vegetation, and dry branches under the eaves and on your roof.

*Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves or debris that could catch flying embers.

*Cover exterior attic vents with metal wire mesh no larger than one-eighth inch to prevent sparks from entering the home.

*Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors: mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles and firewood piles – anything that can burn.

*Be aware of weather conditions. Dry, windy weather contributes significantly to the spread of wildfire. Drought conditions accompanied by low humidity lead to dry vegetation that burns easily. Wind can cause wildfires to grow quickly or to change direction.