The dry summer weather often increases the risk of wildfires in Alaska, causing many residents to acquire homeowners insurance and make the necessary preparations. Fires can ignite from natural and man-made causes, so you need to prepare thoroughly in and around the property. Here are a few steps you can take to enhance your house’s safety.

A Guide to Reducing the Risk of Wildfires in Alaska

1. Remove Flammable Items

Keep flammable objects at least 30 feet away from the home at all times—if you live in a heavily wooded area, store them 50 to 100 feet away. These items include dry or dead trees, landscaping equipment, oil, gasoline cans, propane tanks, and anything else that will ignite if lightning strikes during a summer storm.

2. Maintain the Exterior

Clean the roof and gutters regularly so that leaves, pine needles, and bird nests don’t accumulate. If lightning touches your home, these objects may catch fire.

Keep landscaping well-maintained and watered to prevent the greenery from drying out and becoming more flammable. Keep trees 10 feet apart since they can act as kindling and make sure mulch and other plants are at least five feet away.

3. Use Nonflammable Products

Use these items to prevent ignition and stop or slow wildfires if they approach the house. Replace the roofing with a noncombustible, fire-resistant material, like asphalt, concrete, clay tiles, slate, or metal. Put spark arrestors in the chimney and choose treated wood for the fascia, soffits, decks, and subfloor. Add fire-resistant stone, brick, or stucco to the exterior walls, and install durable tempered glass in the windows.

Check your homeowners insurance to make sure you have the proper coverage for wildfires. If you don’t have this form of coverage, turn to Associated Insurance Services in Anchorage, AK. These professionals have helped residents prepare for the unexpected since 1991. They’ll take the time to understand your lifestyle and property’s layout to determine how much coverage is needed. Get more information about their policies online, or call (907) 349-2229 to request a quote on homeowners insurance.