Protect Your Ministry from Wildfires

Wildfires are unplanned and uncontrolled fires that cause significant damage to ecosystems, properties, and infrastructure. They can spread quickly and be difficult to contain, especially during dry and windy conditions. 

According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), in 2022, there were a total of 68,988 wildfires that burned approximately 7.5 million acres in the United States. This is a staggering amount and is a challenging risk to mitigate; however, 85% of all wildfires are caused by humans, which means we play a valuable role in preventing them. Educating ourselves on properly using outdoor equipment, safely burning debris, and extinguishing campfires can make a difference. 


We ask that you review these steps to protect your ministry property from wildfires:

1. Create a defensible space around your property by keeping the area free of dead vegetation, debris, and flammable materials.
2. Keep your roof, gutters, and vents clear of debris. 
3. Install mesh screens on windows and vents to prevent embers from entering your building.
4. Keep a fire extinguisher and other firefighting tools on hand.
5. Have an evacuation plan and be ready to leave if a wildfire approaches your area.

 Additional long-term strategies include:

• Install non-combustible roofing materials.

Make sure the exterior structure of your building is constructed of materials such as tile, sheet iron, aluminum, or stone to help prevent fire damage.

• Use fire-resistant plants and landscaping materials around your property.

Some examples of fire-resistant plants include:

• Succulents, such as aloe vera and agave
• Deciduous trees, such as oak, maple, and poplar
• Herbaceous perennials, such as yarrow and lavender

It's important to note that even fire-resistant plants can still burn in extreme fire conditions. But some of these tips can still help mitigate the risk. 

For more detailed insights on preventing and mitigating wildfire risks, please visit our wildfire resources.

Remember to always follow the advice of local authorities and stay informed about wildfire conditions in your area.