It’s week 1 of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Project of the Week Campaign. In 2018, the year before we launched this campaign, we responded to 154 brush/vegetation type fires. In 2019, the first year of the WUI campaign, that number dropped to 114. Last summer was hotter and drier than in 2019, and that number rose slightly to 119. Let’s keep up the excellent work, Algona, Auburn, and Pacific, and get that number below 114 this summer. Here is your first project:

Week 1 Project: Declutter

What can you do to prepare your home against wildland/brush fires? The first thing you can do is rid your yard of clutter. Move any construction materials, trash, and woodpiles at least 30 feet away from home and outbuildings. Pay close attention to the first 0 to 5 feet around your home. This area has the most significant impact on your risk. We encourage you to keep this area well maintained and clear of combustible materials.

Where can you dispose of these items? Go to kingcounty.gov/depts/dnrp/solid-waste.aspx for everything you need to know about proper disposal and recycling. If you live in Pierce County, go to www.piercecountywa.gov/1509/Recycling-Menu.

Bonus: This week, you get a two-for-one deal. It is Arson Awareness Week. Clutter around your yard, especially combustible items, makes your home an easy target for arsonists.

Week 2 sneak peek – The Roof