As recent wildfires and county wide burn bans have reminded us, Georgia is still in a state of lower than normal rainfall. The dry conditions create a potential for fires that could affect your property.

The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety has put together regional guides to help homeowners and businesses be proactive in protecting their properties. They recommend the following:

1. Roof materials – while it may not make sense to replace your roof for wildfire protection, its something to keep in mind if you are building new or replacing your roof. Having a non-combustible roof is the number one way to protect your home.
2. Vents and windows – many homes catch fire from distant wildfires due to embers being allowed into the attic due to uncapped vents or attic windows which are left open.
3. Debris in gutters – dry leaves in gutters are easily combustible and can bring the fire right to your roof. Always keep your gutters free of debris. This also helps protect your home from water damage.
4. Open Foundations – Having the underside of your home open also presents dangers as leaves tend accumulate under the house and are highly flammable. Consider enclosing your foundation or at least making sure it is always kept clear and clean.
5. Decks and patios – wood patios can also bring the fire right to your home. Consider building decks with non-flammable materials or with fire-retardant coatings. Enclosed decks and patios are also safer.
6. Create a “defensible zone” – removing bushes, trees and shrubs from the immediate area of your home creates spaces that can be hosed down and makes it harder for fire to “jump” to your home. Don’t forget the tops of trees can encroach close to your home as well.
7. Fuel, building supplies, etc – these items should be kept in an enclosed building/garage/shed that is at least 30 feet from your home.

For the complete report and a checklist you can print off, you can download the entire PDF here.

About David Dempsey Insurance Agency

Founded in 1984 by David Dempsey, David Dempsey Insurance Agency serves Rome, GA, Floyd County Georgia, metro Atlanta and surrounding area. Focusing on insurance for families and individuals, we don't provide quotes - we provide auto and home solutions for our fellow community members. We also specialize in insuring retail businesses, restaurants, health clubs and child care / home care centers.