Southern California: Brush Clearance Time!

In the wake of the Powerhouse Fire, we are all reminded it's that time of year to clear brush in our beautiful Southern California.  Even if you have not received an inspection notice from the Los Angeles Fire Department, do not assume that you do not need to be in compliance. By being proactive, your property will be safer in the event of a fire.

Pacific Vista Landscape Services is here for you to help protect your home by clearing the brush and doing it safely and correctly. The Los Angeles Fire Department website has helpful information for homeowners who are getting ready to clear brush around their homes. It is very important to follow their advice as clearing brush has often led to fires when done incorrectly.

LAFD BRUSH CLEARANCE
SAFETY TIPS FOR HOMEOWNERS:

"Remember that when clearing your brush, safety is very important. In recent
years many brush fires have started by homeowners attempting to clear their
brush. Many times, the sparks produced from metal blades on motorized
equipment has started fires.

The following are simple guidelines for homeowners to follow to clear their brush
safely:

• Always have a water source readily available. A water extinguisher, garden hose or a few buckets of water. 
• Avoid clearing brush during the peak temperatures of the day, between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm and on days when a Red Flag Alert* has been declared by the Fire Department.
• Only use properly maintained motorized equipment and have a spark arrester when required.
• Do not refuel motorized equipment while motor is running. Use approved fuel-dispensing containers only. 
• Always make sure the hot exhaust on any motorized equipment is clear of any vegetation. (grasses, weeds, shrubs) 
• Do not use metal blades on weed whackers/whips. Use nylon line or plastic blades instead.
• Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Hard hats and dust masks are recommended. 

* Red Flag weather days refer to certain weather conditions that can cause a wild-land fire to
 start and to spread rapidly. These conditions generally exist when the winds exceed 25 mph
 and relative humidity is below 15%."

To see LAFD requirements, click here:

LAFD Sketch of General Requirements

0 to 100 Feet Clearance

100 to 200 Feet Clearance.

For more information, call LAFD at
(818) 374-1111, or visit www.lafd.org/brush .

Pacific Vista Landscape Services is here to help with all you landscaping needs and are experts when it comes to clearing brush. Protect your property as much as possible by being in compliance during this dry fire season. Call us for a quote at 661-222-7525!