HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020_08 Public Safety Postcard - FireWILDFIRE SEASON IS COMING. ARE YOU READY?
Tips to Minimize Wildfire Risk
Get ready for wildfire season by removing wildfire fuels around your home and creating defensible space to serve as a
buffer to slow or stop the spread of wildfire. Follow this checklist to help minimize wildfire threat:
Zone 1 (within 5 feet of your home)
• Clean gutters of dead leaves, debris, and pine needles
• Move any flammable material away
• Block off areas below patios and decks with wire mesh
to prevent accumulating debris
Zone 2 (5 to 30 feet from your home)
• Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds
• Trim trees regularly to keep branches a minimum of 10 feet
from structures and other trees
• Remove branches that hang over your roof
Zone 3 (30 to 100 feet from your home)
• Mow lawn down to a maximum height of 4 inches
• Trim shrubs and trees so branches are off the ground and not touching other plants
• Ensure your home can be easily accessed by emergency responders
Become a Firewise Community
Take action and work with your neighbors to reduce wildfire risk for the whole community. The Firewise Community
designation is awarded by the National Fire Protection Association to neighborhoods who work together to prepare and
protect their homes. Get started by visiting the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council at www.sccfiresafe.org
CITY OF SARATOGA PUBLIC SAFETY TIPS
PSPS Ready
On Red Flag Warning Days, PG&E may turn off your power to reduce
risk of wildfire. Prepare now for a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
event by making sure your PG&E billing information has your current
contact information to receive an alert prior to turning off power.
If you qualify as a medical baseline customer, you will get extra
notifications in advance of a PSPS event as well as a lower rate on
your energy bill. Plan ahead, especially if you depend on powered
medical devices, by informing PG&E, installing generators, and
having an evacuation plan. Visit www.saratoga.ca.us/PSPS for more
information.
Red Flag Warnings
When conditions are ripe for extreme fire behavior, the United States
National Weather Service will issue a Red Flag Warning. Fire stations
will fly red-colored flags as a public warning to be on high alert. Avoid
activities such as driving over dry grass or tossing lit cigarette butts
into vegetation. On a Red Flag Warning Day, never mow or trim dry
grass. Residents are also advised to be ready for the possibility of fire
by preparing an emergency supply kit and relocating large animals to
a safe location early. For more info, visit www.sccfd.org/rsg
More Information
www.saratoga.ca.us/fireCITY o f S ARATO
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CALIF O R N IA1956
s a r a toga
13777 Fruitvale Avenue • Saratoga, CA 95070