Wildfire threat calls for extra precautions Published April 15, 2011 Tinker Fire and Emergency Services TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Wildfires continue to be a threat. While these firestorms can wreak major devastation, there are a few things homeowners can do to reduce the risk and be prepared when fire strikes. Do Abide by and be aware of burn bans. Burn ban information on all counties in Oklahoma can be found at http://www.forestry.ok.gov/burn-ban-information Don'ts Never throw lighted smoking material from a car. Do not use charcoal barbecues, only use propane with extra caution. Do not burn debris or use fire pits, chimineas, smokers or other flame producing devices. Make sure home is wildfire safe: Maintain a 30-foot defensible space around your home to act as a fire break. Clear a 10-foot area around propane tanks and the barbecue. Regularly dispose of newspapers and rubbish. Regularly clean roof and gutters. embers fly into gutters full of leaves. These fires can smolder and catch fire in the eaves of a home quickly. In 40 mph winds, this can spell disaster. Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs and clear combustible vegetation from around and under structures. Remove dead branches that extend over the roof, ask the power company to clear branches from power lines. Stack firewood at least 100 feet away from your home. Store flammable materials in approved safety cans. Inspect chimneys twice a year. Clean them at least once a year. Use mesh screen beneath porches, decks, floor areas and the home itself. Also, screen openings to floors, roof and attic. Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, and in your bedrooms; test monthly and change the batteries twice a year. Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tool: a rake, handsaw or chain saw, bucket and shovel. When Fire Threatens Listen to your radio and television for reports and evacuation information. Back your car into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of evacuation. Close doors and windows. Leave the key in the ignition. Arrange for temporary housing outside the threatened area. Have a plan If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Tell someone when you are leaving and where you are going. If you evacuate your home place a note on the door indicating when you left and where you're are going. Wear protective clothing-sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothing, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, hat, gloves and a handkerchief to protect your face.