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Georgia Conditions and Preventatives

Mary Mitigation
Nov 8, 2016
2 min read

The state of Georgia has experienced drought conditions for the past several weeks, and the dryness has spread to the vast majority of the state. Hundreds of wildfires continue to burn across the state, and there’s no rain in sight. Residents are asked to clear debris from roofs, gutters and porches and keep lawns trimmed and watered to prevent fires from spreading. Most fires are caused by humans or by lightning. The state officials are urging people to be extra careful as the state is on a heightened alert with a red flag warning.

Here are some tips and precautions that you should take around you own property to make sure that you are not the cause of the next wildfire.

1. Check the conditions. Don’t burn when it’s windy or when vegetation is very dry.

2. Check local regulations. In your area a permit may be required.

3. Burn this, not that. You can burn dry, natural vegetation, grown on the property, unless prohibited by local ordinances. Household trash, plastic or tires are not good to burn and are illegal to burn in some areas. Check your local ordinances.

4. Look up. Choose a safe burning site away from powerlines, overhanging limbs, buildings, vehicles, and equipment. You’ll need at least three times the height of the pile of vertical clearance.

5. Look around. The site should be surrounded by gravel or mineral soil (dirt) at least 10 feet in all directions. Keep the surroundings watered down during the burn and have a shovel close by.

6. Prepare your pile. Keep your piles small and manageable. Add additional debris as the fire burns down.

7.If using a burn barrel, make sure it’s made entirely of metal, properly equipped (at least three evenly-spaced, three-inch, screened vents and metal top screen) and in good condition.

8. Whether it’s a requirement in your area or not, always stay with your fire until it is completely out. Drown the fire with water, turn over the ashes with a shovel and drown it again. Repeat several times.

9. Check the burn area regularly over the next several days and up to several weeks following the burn, especially if the weather is warm, dry, and windy.

Continue to watch the local news and keep up with the latest reports and warnings. Be cautious when working around your house and take all the steps to ensure that you are aware of the conditions and prepared for any situation. If your home suffers fire or smoke damage from a wildfire please give us a call at 770.720.9533. We are here for you. At your side and on your side.