Clearing brush reduces the risk of fire and, in the event of a fire, helps slow its spread and intensity. Here is the advice from the Gers firefighters.
Wildfires pose a growing threat to homes, especially those surrounded by dense, unmaintained vegetation. Did you know that 90% of houses destroyed during forest fires were surrounded by land that was not or poorly cleared? This statistic speaks for itself: clearing brush means protecting your home and its occupants. This article explains why and how this action is crucial.
Why clear brush?
Clearing brush consists of reducing the mass of plants on land by creating clear spaces between the different plants and trees. By reducing the continuity of vegetation, we limit the ability of a fire to spread quickly and intensify its intensity. This work can make the difference between a home that survives a fire and one that is consumed.
In the event of a fire, clearing brush helps slow the flames and reduce their power. This also facilitates the intervention of firefighters, who then have more time and space to protect homes.
The ideal time to clear brush: autumn and winter
Autumn and winter are particularly suitable for undertaking this heavy work. Trees and shrubs lose their leaves, making clearing and cutting brush more accessible. In addition, the risk of fire is lower during these seasons, allowing you to act in complete safety. This is the ideal time to clear out brush and prepare your land before the summer season, which is prone to forest fires.
The consequences of poorly cleared land
Land that has not been cleared constitutes a real danger. Dense vegetation and brush near the house provide ideal fuel for flames. Without clearing, a fire can not only start more easily, but also spread quickly to the home, endangering the occupants and property. Feedback from major fires shows that, for a large majority of destroyed houses, the surroundings were not sufficiently cleared.
How to properly clear brush? The essential steps
- I undertake the heaviest work : in autumn or winter, make the necessary cuts to create discontinuities in the vegetation. This includes pruning, mulching and cutting brush.
- I regularly maintain : beyond seasonal work, it is important to maintain this clearing continuously. This involves mowing the grass, cutting the brush and pruning the lower branches of the trees. By trimming hedges and reducing the plant mass on the ground, you maintain an environment less conducive to fires.
- I clean the area around my house : get rid of dead leaves, branches, and any plant debris around your home. These materials constitute fuel in the event of a fire. Also remember to evacuate or destroy the residue from your clearing work to prevent it from accumulating.
More information
For more information on good brush clearing practices and the rules in force, consult the official website of the Ministry of Ecology: Clear brush to prevent fires.
Clearing brush means protecting your home and your family. By taking action today, you significantly reduce the risks for tomorrow.
