'Firewise' Landscaping

'Firewise' Landscaping

In a previous blog, How 'Firewise'Is Your Home?,we addressed suggestions for 'Firewise' construction.  This is especially relevant in our area because the woodlands of our state, South Carolina are easily susceptible to fire fires.  But all areas of the country are susceptible to fires to one degree or another.  With the ongoing and devastating fires in the Myrtle Beach(Horry County) area of South Carolina, all home owners should learn and incorporate 'fireswise' practices.   

Savannah Lakes Village in McCormick County has been designated as a 'Firewise' Community since 2006.  In the Architectural Expectations for new construction in Savannah Lakes Village, guidelines are given for ‘Firewise’ landscaping. They are as follows: 

SUGGESTED FIREWISE LANDSCAPING CHECKLIST 

When designing and installing a Firewise landscape, consider the following:

Local area fire history

• Site location and overall terrain.
• Prevailing winds and seasonal weather.
• Property contours and boundaries.
• Native vegetation.
• Plant characteristics and placement.  Widely space and carefully situate the trees you plant. Be sure to leave a minimum of 30' around the house to accommodate fire equipment, if necessary.
• Take out the “ladder fuels” — vegetation that serves as a link between grass and tree tops. This arrangement can carry fire to a structure or from a structure to  another area.
• Give yourself added protection with “fuel breaks” like driveways, gravel walkways, and lawns.

When maintaining a landscape, homeowners should:

• Keep trees and shrubs properly pruned. Prune all trees so the lowest limbs are 6' to 10' from the ground.
• Remove leaf clutter and dead and overhanging branches.
• Mow the lawn regularly.
• Dispose of cuttings and debris promptly, according to local regulations.
• Store firewood away from the house.
• Be sure the irrigation system is well maintained.
• Use care when refueling garden equipment and maintain it regularly.
• Store and use flammable liquids properly.
• Dispose of smoking materials carefully.
• Become familiar with local regulations regarding vegetation clearances, disposalof debris, and fire safety requirements for equipment.
• Follow manufacturer's instructions when using fertilizers and pesticides.

Bruce and Maryare South Carolina REALTORS® specializing in Savannah Lakes Village, a planned retirement and second home golf and lake front community in McCormick County, South Carolina.

®Bruce & Mary Smith  -  "'Firewise' Landscaping"