3 Ways To Protect Your Home From Wildfires

You probably don’t think about wildfires in the Charleston area but they have happened before and can be catastrophic to area homes. A rapidly moving wildfire can easily destroy entire neighborhoods and threaten human life. Even if your home isn’t directly affected by fire, the residual smoke in the area can permeate your home and require important smoke damage cleanup services. Follow these 3 easy ways to protect your home from wildfires:

Clean Up Your Yard

Fallen leaves and dead brush are like kindling to a wildfire. Keeping your yard clear of anything that would be easily flammable is the first line of defense against a spreading wildfire. Don’t ignore the buildup of leaves and regularly maintain your yard to keep the chance of burning embers igniting your yard to a minimum. If a tree or plant has died, make plans to safely take it down instead of allowing it to stay in the yard. Reducing the fuel available to wildfires, such as dead vegetation, is key to keeping your yard fire safe.

Replace Fencing And Furniture

Wood fencing can easily become aged and worn down over time. Keep your fencing in good condition by painting or staining it on a regular basis. If your wood fence has deteriorated consider replacing it with wire or plastic fencing that won’t burn as easily as dry wood. If your home has a lot of outdoor furniture, make sure that any wood furniture is also properly maintained and protected from wearing out. Making sure that your yard is free of easily combustible items will help to keep wildfires at bay and decrease your chances of needing smoke damage cleanup services.

Seal Window and Door Cracks

If your home isn’t in the direct path of a wildfire, your home can still be damaged from the residual smoke that occurs in the area. Sealing up your windows and doors will help to ensure that no smoke enters your home. Even one small crack in a seal during wildfire season can decrease the air quality of your home and require the need for smoke damage cleanup services.

Keep your home safe from wildfires by following these important steps. If you home does need smoke damage cleanup services, contact ServiceMaster of Charleston in order to clean your home from the looming effects of smoke damage.