Protecting Property from Wildfire Risk: Intermediate Zone
Understanding Fire Ignition Zones
The area inside 30 metres from the exterior of your property is called the Property Ignition Zone. That zone is composed of three key areas: the Immediate Zone (0 to 1.5 metres), Intermediate Zone (1.5 to 10 metres), and the Extended Zone (10 to 30 metres). This series will illustrate how to reduce your property’s risk from wildfires by taking simple steps in each zone to prevent the spread of fire if it breaks out.
Intermediate Zone (1.5 m to 10 m)
The focus in this area is ensuring there are no materials that could allow a fire to spread toward your property.
Landscaping and plants
Every effort should be made to plant fire resistant plants and trees. Also, avoid using mulch or woody debris as it can easily ignite; choose gravel or river rock instead. Keep grass trimmed short. Conduct regular maintenance to remove dry combustible materials such as leaves and dead trees and branches. Always ensure that you maintain a 1.5 m non-combustible zone around your property.
Recognizing fire-resistant plants
Moist, supple leaves that have low amount of sap and any sap is water-like.
Recognizing flammable plants
These tend to have aromatic leaves, cones and needles, accumulate dry and dead material, have resins and oils, and loose or flaky bark.
Manage and remove fire hazards
Fire tools
All properties should have easy to access tools for fighting fires including shovels, hoses, sprinklers, ladders, rakes and axes.
Power lines
These areas should be clear of combustible materials. Talk to your local utility about any threats.
Firewood piles
Firewood saved next to a property is a serious fire threat. Wood should be stored between 10 to 30 metres from the property.
Understanding Fire Ignition Zones
Extended Zone 10m – 30m
Reduce hazards by eliminating potential surface fuels (remove fallen branches, prune trees etc.)
Intermediate Zone 1.5m – 10m
A fire-resistant area, free from materials that could easily ignite.
Immediate Zone 0 – 1.5 m
A non-combustible aread up to 1.5 metres from the property.
Our team understands the risks faced by Strata and Condo Corporations
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Want to learn more about wildfire safety and prevention?
Visit our Wildfire Resource Centre on our website:
