June: Be lean, clean and green
Well, they would burn, but you are likely to get more fire than you bargained for.
June is often the height of the fire season in areas of Alaska. Dry weather combines with dry fuels where green-up has yet to temper the risk. Under such conditions, a wayward spark can ignite a wildfire that quickly gets out of control.
Take the fire near Ninilchik in 2007, which was started from a spark from sharpening a shovel. Other large fires have been caused by fireworks, power lines and, of course, burn piles. Not to mention that open burning restrictions are often in place.
This is the time of year to be extra vigilant about minimizing fire risk. If you haven't already done so, clear dead grass and leaves away from your home and remove roof debris. Enclose openings that provide entry for blowing embers.
You also might consider tilling a firebreak around the perimeter of your home site, especially if you live in a rural area with a high fire risk.
For the most part, anything green is your friend when it comes to reducing the chance that a wildfire will get to your home. Mowed green grass is particularly helpful and green, succulent vegetation as well as broad-leafed trees also might slow a wildfire's path to your home. If you aren't sure what to plant, contact your local FireWise office or go online.
You can make a date for FireWise team members to visit your home and offer advice. Through a cost-share program, Alaska Division of Forestry can pay homeowners up to $2,500 to FireWise their homes and up to 2.5 acres of surrounding property. For more information on FireWise, go to www.firewisekp.com or contact FireWise Kenai Peninsula: 260-4262 or kpb.firewise.team@gmail.com.
Carey James is the public outreach coordinator for FireWise Kenai Peninsula, which is funded by the Alaska Division of Forestry , USDA Forest Service and the Kenai Peninsula Borough.
