Brush Clearance: Protecting Your Home From Brush Fires - Castle Breckenridge Management

Brush Clearance: Protecting Your Home From Brush Fires

As summer comes to a bittersweet end and fall begins to slowly creep in, the allure of pumpkin flavored beverages and cool weather are hard to resist. In Southern California, fall also hails a growing concern of spontaneous and potentially devastating wildfires. Fortunately, taking the proper precautions can prevent fires, and it starts right in your backyard.

The easiest way to alleviate worry is to do preventative maintenance on your property. Dry brush is abundantly found in our area and can be a major catalyst for wildfires. By clearing unwanted brambles and shrubs, you’re doing more than just protecting your own home. You’re protecting your neighborhood.

Here are a few ways to safely clear brush from your land:

  • Hire a local company
  • Use goats
  • DIY
  • Contract with your city

Local companies have the necessary equipment to get the job done quickly and safely. Typically, they’ll provide you with a free estimate upon reviewing your property, and depending on the amount of brush to clear, can have the job done in just a couple of days.

Goats may not be the first solution you think of when considering brush abatement options, but using them is actually quite normal-and natural! Considering most people don’t own them, there are companies who will rent them by the day or week. All you have to do is make sure your property is full enclosed and set them free to munch on tasty weeds.

If you choose to remove brush yourself, you’ll want to secure the proper permits beforehand. Visit your local government’s website or give them a call to learn exactly what you’ll need. If you rent, be sure to ask your Property Manager how they plan to handle the clearance and how you can help prepare for their visit. Some cities have special permit restrictions and requirements and you’ll want to know about these before you start clearing.

Some cities will take care of the clearance for you, but it will likely come at a much higher cost than the other options. The price for city abatements are set by contract agreements and are often extremely high compared to hiring a private company.

A few tips should you decide to tackle the clearance on your own:

Do not clear brush during peak temperatures-11:00am and 3:00pm-or when a Red Flag Alert has been declared by your fire department.
Always have a reliable water source on hand. Keep a couple of buckets full of water, a hose, or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Don’t forget the basics: tools like shovels and handsaws will make the job much easier.

 

Useful Links:
http://www.sandiego.gov/fire/services/brush/

Additional Questions:
http://www.sandiego.gov/fire/services/brush/faqs.shtml

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