The aftermath of urban fires often reveals unburned vegetation near devastation, indicating that well-maintained plants can protect homes from embers and slow fire spread. California's wildfire regulations could prohibit beneficial plants in the almost combustible Zone 0 near homes, a move that could face public backlash. The significance of plant flammability in fire mitigation is emphasized, especially as research indicates that homes often ignite before surrounding vegetation, highlighting a need for regulations that appropriately balance safety and plant preservation to protect against future wildfires.
Wildfire safety guidelines have long encouraged homeowners to avoid having flammable materials next to their homes. But the state's plan for an ember-resistant zone... goes further by also prohibiting grass, shrubs and many trees in that area.
When surviving plants appear scorched after these fires, it is often on the side of the plant facing a nearby structure that burned. That suggests that wind-blown embers ignited houses first.
#wildfire-safety #vegetation-management #california-regulations #fire-prevention #environmental-research
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