Saturday has been designated as Wildfire Community Preparedness Day and residents are encouraged to take steps so that homes have a better chance at surviving a wildfire.
The National Fire Protection Association is reminding people that the number of properties at risk for wildfires is expected to grow by 11 percent over the next 30 years as more homes are built in areas prone to wildfires.
The organization is recommending homeowners remove fuel sources from areas around homes. Also, dead leaves, pine needles, and other debris should be removed regularly from roofs and gutters. Finally, items that are able to burn should not be stored under decks or porches.
The NFPA website has more free resources concerning wildfire preparedness.