As a homeowner living or building in areas where wildfire can occur, you can protect your home and preserve the surrounding forest by taking certain precautions. Jefferson County, the Colorado State Forest Service, the Jefferson County Fire Council and local fire protection districts offer the following guidelines and actions you can take to protect your home and your loved ones - responsibly creating an environment that can give you a fighting chance should you or your home be caught in a wildfire. What if a wildfire occurs near your home Prepare the outside of your home - IF you have time Prepare the inside of your home Check with local officials to see what fire protection is available in your area. Evaluate the building site. Choose a site away from heavily vegetated areas.
Level is better than sloped.
Structures located on ridge tops or in ravines can be in the direct path of a fire. Provide easy access for emergency vehicles. A steep, narrow or winding driveway can impede access of larger emergency vehicles. The number one danger is untreated wood shake roofs. Use Class A roofing materials, rated effective against severe fire exposure.