Fireproofing

Follow these basic steps to help protect your home against fire:

Create a safety zone by clearing any flammable vegetation within 30 feet of the house.

Remove dead branches, leaves and needles from brush outside the safety zone.

Do not burn trash or leaves in a yard or empty lot.

Check roof for leaves, twigs and pine needles; roof should be made of fire-resistant materials.

Clean gutters of dried twigs and leaves.

Store wood away from home.

Cover chimney with half-inch steel mesh or chimney cap.

Install smoke detectors outside bedrooms; test often and replace batteries annually.

Practice escape plan twice a year, including use of emergency ladders.

Designate meeting place outside home; teach family members not to reenter burning house.

Sources: Associated Press and Times files