The Arkansas FireWise program educates residents about preparing their homes and buildings to resist wildfires, said Adriane Barnes, spokeswoman for the
Arkansas Forestry Commission.
It is part of a national education program.
Homeowners and property owners should consider "the lean, clean and green" guidelines, which include:
Create a lean space
Prune shrubs and cut back tree branches, especially those within 15 feet of the roof. Cut trees touching the home or other trees. Don't rid the yard of trees and
landscaping, but keep everything trimmed and neat.
Create a clean space
Remove dead plant material including limbs, sticks, twigs, leaves, dry grass and firewood from within 30 feet of homes. This area includes the roof, deck, vents, flower beds, tool sheds and outbuildings, carports and dog kennels. Annual raking and mowing is not only for aesthetic appeal; it also keeps a space clean so fire cannot spread easily.
Create a green space
Maintain a well-watered yard and plant fire-resistant vegetation that stays healthy and green for most of the year.
Fire-resistant construction tips include:
Use heat-resistant materials such as cement, plaster, stucco, brick masonry, steel and fireproof siding.
Use Class A roofing materials and shingles constructed of metal, cement, slate or ceramic tile instead of wood.
Use double-paned glass.
Create multiple ways in and out of the property for easy water access.
Clearly mark the address outside so emergency personnel can find the house.
Post reflective lettering at a home or other property in 4-inch letters to allow for quick response times.
Communities interested in receiving FireWise grant money should call the program at 501-296-1940.
The National Weather Service in Shreveport, La., reported Friday the drought has expanded across the Ark-La-Tex. The dry conditions are causing more outdoor burning bans to be issued.
In Southwest Arkansas, burn bans have been issued for the following counties: Clark, Columbia, Hempstead, Howard and Pike.
In northwest Louisiana, bans include Caddo, Webster and DeSoto parishes.
In northeast Texas, the ban includes Cass and Marion counties.
The prospects for substantial rain are still distant, with Sunday being the only chance for rain in the next seven days, according to the National Weather Service.