Wildfires are, sadly, common in various states across the country this year. If you are a cabin owner, you may find this worrying. Many cabins are located in the middle of woodland, away from towns, where wildfires can thrive – so how exactly do we keep them safe?
If you are anxious about protecting your cabin from wildfires, we can help. Here are some of the best ways to keep your cabin secure and out of harm’s way.
External Sprinkler Systems
One of the most reliable methods of protecting your cabin from wildfires is by installing an external sprinkler system. The sprinkler system can be attached to a water source like a river, lake, or a cistern.
These sprinklers then run for a set amount of time – long enough to successfully moisten the ground and create a humid atmosphere. This amount of time they run for will vary depending on where the cabin is located and how dry the atmosphere is.
They will then create an environment that wildfires will struggle to survive in. The plants will be made less flammable, the temperature will be cooled down, and the atmosphere will be more humid.
Remove Debris and Small Plants
There could be all sorts of flammable debris around your cabin; it is essential to clear up any potentially flammable objects. Pine needles are remarkably flammable, so ensure that your cabin and its surroundings are clear of these. Be sure to also check your gutters for any debris!
Create a barrier between your cabin and the forest
Forming a barrier between the forest and your cabin is another great idea. Some people recommend shortly-cut grass, but if the grass dries out, it can become a fire hazard. It is best to choose an entirely non-flammable material, such as rocks or annual or perennial plants. These have a high moisture content, so provide an inhospitable atmosphere for a fire to spread.
It’s also a good idea to select the same kind of plant or material for your yard. Any low-growing, moisture-rich plant or other material works well.
Prune trees
Trees near to your cabin should be pruned efficiently. Any branches that are hanging within 15 feet of your chimney or any other part of your cabin should be cut back, to enable plenty of space.
Any larger trees should also be cut back – it’s a good idea to ensure that the lowest limbs of any tree are 8-10 feet above the ground. And, of course, whenever you prune a tree be sure to remove the branches, as they could become a fire hazard!
Plan for the future
If you are considering purchasing a new woodland cabin in the future, there are some ways that you can make it fireproof from the beginning. Materials such as stucco, brick, and TruLog Steel sliding are non-flammable, so they are ideal for cabins. You can also use fire-resistant roofing material such as AA grade asphalt.
Of course, it is still essential to take all of the other precautions on this list, even with a cabin made from fireproof materials!
Wildfires can be scary, particularly when you have a cabin that needs protecting. However, with some of these tips, you’ll be able to make sure fires stay well away from your cabin, and you’ll be doing your bit for stopping wildfire spread too!
