COUNTYWIDE : Red Cross Offering Fire Prevention Tips
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As the two-year anniversary of the devastating 1993 firestorms approaches, the American Red Cross of Ventura County is issuing tips to help prevent and prepare for wildfires.
Red Cross officials suggest that residents of fire-prone regions regularly clean their roofs and gutters, install or check smoke detectors and make sure fire tools such as rakes, axes, buckets and shovels are on hand.
There should be a 30- to 100-foot fire safety zone around residences, and the area should be clear of all combustible material such as dry vegetation and firewood.
An outdoor water source such as a pool, small pond or fire hydrant should be available. Homeowners are also advised to have a garden hose capable of reaching any part of the residence.
When a wildfire threatens, residents in its path should listen to a battery-powered radio for reports and evacuation information. If it is necessary to evacuate, doors and windows should be closed, but left unlocked, the Red Cross said.
For more disaster preparedness or response tips, call the local Red Cross at 339-2234.
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