May is Fire Awareness Month, a crucial time to prepare your home and family before fire season is in full swing. Whether you live in a rural, suburban, or forest-adjacent community, taking preventive steps now can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to know and do to help keep your home safe during fire season.
Why Fire Awareness Matters in May
May often marks the start of fire season in many parts of the country. As spring rains taper off and temperatures rise, grasses and brush become dry fuel ready to ignite. Strong winds and human activity (like grilling, lawn mowing, or fireworks) can quickly turn a spark into a dangerous blaze. Proactive planning helps reduce your risk and gives emergency responders a better chance to protect your property.
What is FireSmart?
FireSmart is a proactive program supported by Kootenai County and the National Fire Plan. Its mission is to raise awareness of wildfire hazards in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas of Kootenai County and to mitigate those hazards wherever possible.
Funding for FireSmart is provided through state and federal agency grants, helping property owners take meaningful action to reduce wildfire risk without bearing the full financial burden.
A Two-Fold Program for Protection
The FireSmart program takes a two-fold approach to wildfire mitigation and preparedness:
1. Fuel Break Assistance: FireSmart assists property owners in creating fuel breaks—cleared areas designed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire—around their homes and neighborhoods. For landowners whose property qualifies for treatment, the initial hazardous fuel reduction work is fully funded through the program. In return, participants agree to maintain the work for 10 years, or until the property is sold, whichever comes first. This shared commitment helps protect both individual homes and the broader community.
2. Education and Empowerment: Beyond on-the-ground assistance, FireSmart empowers homeowners with education and resources to become active partners in fire safety. Participants learn how to:
- Create a fire-safe zone around their home
- Reduce the ignitability of structures
- Ensure clear and safe access for firefighters and emergency vehicles
Local fire districts also support the program by offering home assessments and personalized recommendations, making it easier for residents to understand their risks and take action.
7 Ways to Keep Your Home Safe During Fire Season
1. Create Defensible Space: Clear at least 30 feet around your home of flammable debris, trim vegetation, and clean roofs and gutters.
2. Use Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Select drought-tolerant, low-resin plants and maintain spacing to slow fire spread.
3. Harden Your Home: Install fire-resistant roofing and siding, screen attic vents, and use non-combustible materials wherever possible.
4. Maintain Access for Emergency Vehicles: Mark your address clearly and keep driveways unobstructed for fire trucks and ambulances.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include food, water, medications, documents, flashlights, and supplies for pets and children.
6. Make a Family Evacuation Plan: Know your exits and practice fire drills regularly with your household.
7. Stay Informed: Sign up for emergency alerts and follow local fire agency updates during the season.
Community Action is Key
Encourage your neighbors to take similar steps. Wildfires don’t stop at property lines—communities that work together are far more resilient. Consider joining or starting a Firewise USA® or FireSmart™ group in your area to coordinate efforts and share knowledge.
May Fire Awareness Month is more than a reminder—it’s a call to action. The steps you take today could save your home, your neighborhood, and the lives of those you love.
Stay updated on current Idaho fire conditions or apply for a free burn permit here https://www.idl.idaho.gov/fire-management/
