Jasper County OEM Shares October ‘Monthly Mitigation Minder’

Photo by Rita Shipp

The Office of Emergency Management is reminding residents that while wildfire season may slow down in the fall, it never truly stops. October’s Monthly Mitigation Minder encourages homeowners to take a few minutes this month to reduce wildfire risks and keep their property safe.

This month’s checklist includes:

• Check your home’s fire risk zone

• Create defensible space around your home and property

• Clear leaves and brush within 30 feet of structures

• Trim low limbs and remove dead vegetation

• Keep grass short and green when possible

• Move firewood and fuel away from the house

Officials say these small steps can make a major difference when dry conditions return.

“Preparedness is year-round,” the OEM noted. “Mitigation now prevents emergencies later.”

Residents are also reminded to “fall back” this weekend — set clocks back one hour and check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for fresh batteries.

— Office of Emergency Management