Dangerous wildfires do not only occur in the Western United States, high fire activity is also common in Oklahoma. Within this hazardous fire environment, there are homes, subdivisions and entire communities. However, many who live near woodland or grassland areas are ill prepared to survive an intense wildfire.

Our ability to live more safely in this environment depends on "pre-fire" activities. Research shows by being proactive before a wildfire occurs, you have a better chance of saving lives and property from wildfire.

We cannot "fire proof" the landscape, but we can:

• Manage the vegetation around homes to create defensible space for protection
• Use fire resistant building materials when building new or improving homes
• Help design new subdivisions using firewise measures
• Ensure coordination among all emergency response agencies to wildland fires.

For more information:

Go to the Firewise website or Contact Oklahoma's Firewise Coordinator.