Captain Jason Berry
Government and Media Relations
(360) 596-4010 – office
(360) 596-4015 – fax
http://www.wsp.wa.gov

*** For Immediate Release***

Date: April 13, 2010
Contact: Deputy State Fire Marshal Esther Hernandez
Phone: (360) 596-3926
E-mail: Esther.Hernandez@wsp.wa.gov

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Firewise Construction

Wildfires have become increasingly common in the wildland/urban interface (WUI) as more people move to remote areas creating an environment where fire can move readily between structures and vegetation. Emergency response can be difficult in these isolated and undeveloped areas. There is no guarantee that firefighters will be able to save your home if a wildfire occurs but property owners in the WUI can take action before a fire starts.

The building materials and design of homes can significantly influence their vulnerability to wildfire. For example, strong winds during an extreme wildfire can carry burning embers more than a mile to land on a roof, enter unscreened openings, and collect in the gutters of a home. By considering and modifying the weak points of buildings, homeowners can significantly reduce fire risk.

Some of the changes that can be made are:

• Use Class A, B or C rated roofing material (fire-resistant).
• Use fire-resistant building materials on exterior walls, overhangs and attachments.
• Use double-paned or tempered glass in windows, skylights and doors.
• Enclose eaves, fascias, soffits and vents.

“There is no guarantee that your home will be fireproof,” says Acting State Fire Marshal Paul Perz, “However, by making your home Firewise, you can greatly increase the chances it will survive a wildfire.”

For more information about making your home Firewise, go to www.firewise.org

The Office of the State Fire Marshal is a Bureau of the Washington State Patrol, providing fire and life safety services to the citizens of Washington State including inspections of state licensed facilities, plan review of school construction projects, licensing of fire sprinkler contractors and pyrotechnic operators, training Washington State’s firefighters, and collecting emergency response data.

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