Welcome?

[Hogballs]

Hi, all-

I live in El Cajon, CA. Thank God we were spared in the Cedar Fire, although it came within 1000' of us (which is about 5 MILES too close).

Before I get to my question I have to say YOU GUYS 'n' GALS ROCK! Do you firefighters realize the relief felt by someone in need when they see that bright red truck roll up? I hope you do. You are all appreciated! (although proably not enough at times)

OK- Down to business. We are in the process of building a house and this disaster has brought to the forefront of my attention something that I've been merely mulling around: What can I do protect my family (including the four legged ones) & home from the threat of wildfire?

We have plenty of options at this point, including type of siding on the house, roof (we're spec'd for concrete tiles, but I'm wondering if standing seam would be better?), landscaping and so on.

Is this site an appropriate place to research this type of information?

And are non-firefighters welcome here?

If not, is there another website you can refer me to?

Best Regards!

Chris / Hog

God Bless The Firefighters.

[Rayr49]

Yes, non-firefighters are welcome here. We are always willing to try to help.

Check with your local fire dept and CDF. There are national and state programs that will provide you with the information and options that you need.

You are on the right track. Non-combustible exteriors are a big help. Landscape planning and vegatation control are important.

You mentioned four legged animals. Are you talking larger than the family dog or cat?

If your house and other buildings are set a long way back from the road, make sure the fire trucks can access your driveway. Some areas have building codes that require certain widths, degree of any curves and maximum grade. A visit with your local department can answer this question.

If you plan a swimming pool or pond try to make it accessible for the fire department. In many cases the local water system is depleted by fires of the type you have and the pool or pond could make the difference in the fire department being able to save your property or watching it burn.

Good Luck on you new home.

[ffdfireexplorer]

welcome to firehouse forums and good luck with your new home.

[brubaker]

Welcome to the firehouse family Chris. Contact CDF or your local FD regarding tips to keep your house firesafe.

Here's a good tip, always remember to keep a clearing free of brush at least 25' from your home. This is a good way to reduce fire danger to your home.

[33motor]

Hogballs..... LOL, yes someone with an ID like that is always welcome here.

posted by Bru,

Contact CDF or your local FD regarding tips to keep your house firesafe.

LOL, is there an echo in here?

As far as tips: Contact the Cal. Dept. of forestry, as well as you local Fire Dept. LOL

[FDNY101TRUCK]

Hello and welcome to the Firehouse Forums and good luck with everything.