Reduce the risk of wildfire damage to your property

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight is 77% rural including large areas that are heathland, National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

On average we see around 39 wildfires each year in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. These fires put people, property, wildlife and the habitat at risk. If you live close to heathland, woodland, open spaces the potential for damage to your home is heightened.

• Prevent embers from entering your roof space by repairing/replacing any loose or broken tiles.
• Identify any gaps in soffits/cladding around the roof area and use wire mesh to screen them – this retains ventilation but helps to prevent embers from getting in. You must get advice before doing this if you suspect bats are present.
• Identify places where dead leaves can collect and clear them regularly such as gutters or under decking
• Remove dead vegetation and other items from under your decking and within ten feet of the property.
• Screen areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris collecting.

• Move any flammable material away from external house walls, such as leaves, compost heaps and log piles.
• Create separation between trees, bushes and items that could catch fire, such as sheds, patio furniture, wood piles, swing sets etc.
• Consider the position of any garden sheds and their proximity to the property – Where possible, use a fire-retardant paint on fencing and wooden structures.
• Remove or ensure that plants containing oils and resins etc are in moveable pots and away from your home.

• Trim back shrubs or trees that are close to or touching your home and prune trees so that the lowest branches are six to ten feet above the ground.
• Don’t put cuttings over your fence– it will add to the fire risk near your property

• During hot, dry spells consider using ‘grey’ (waste) water for watering plants and lawns. That way, even if there are limits on the use of hosepipes, the ground can be kept damp.

• Make sure that your home’s name or number is clearly visible from the road – this will help the emergency services to locate you should a fire occur.
• Avoid parking on or next to any fire hydrants – these are clearly identifiable with a yellow ‘H’ plate.

You can also help prevent wildfires from starting visit our in the countryside pages to find out more.