Firewise Ohio & Wildfire Prevention

As more houses are built in and near the woods and fields of Ohio, it has become increasingly difficult for firefighters to protect valuable property and homes while at the same time trying to control wildfires. As a result, it is critically important that homeowners take an active and responsible role in ensuring that their home is FIREWISE.

 

Firewise is a term used to describe the steps that property owners can take which will reduce the risk of property loss and/or damage due to wildfire. Becoming Firewise tremendously increases the chances of a home surviving a wildfire event. Explore the Related Information links for more tips on becoming Firewise.    

 

The Firewise Ohio Program is an initiative designed to include fire safety professionals, homeowners, and community leaders in an effort to lessen the risks to communities across Ohio. The ultimate goal of this program is to increase community safety through cooperative education and hazard mitigation techniques. The Ohio Division of Forestry is eager to work with fire departments across Ohio to help address local wildfire safety concerns, and can provide expertise in helping develop successful wildfire education campaigns that can make an impact.   

 

The Ohio Division of Forestry offers Firewise Ohio Hazard Mitigation Grants to support Firewise projects in Ohio communities. These grants are awarded to fire departments and can be used to purchase a variety of equipment that is useful in completing Firewise safety projects. Click HERE for more details on Firewise Ohio grants.   

• Complete a community wildfire assessment and hazard mitigation plan for the community.
• Create a Firewise Communities USA committee to track Firewise activities in the community.
• Invest at least $2 per capita on Firewise projects in the community. 
• Hold an annual Firewise Communities event for community members and general public.
• Submit an annual report showing compliance with Firewise Communities criteria.