Wildfires

When wildfire threatens

• Listen to the news media or your NOAA Weather Alert radio for emergency messages to learn where the danger is.
• If told to evacuate, DO SO IMMEDIATELY.
• Tell someone you are leaving and where you are going.
• Choose a route away from fire hazards and listen to public safety officials.

The most important thing you can do is to prepare your family and your home before a wildfire threatens.

• Have an escape plan.
• Update your insurance annually.
• Trim trees and create defendable space around your home.

Wildfire vulnerability

This map shows the areas within Volusia County burned during the 1998 wildfires. Many areas are still at potential risk to wildfire due to a number of factors. This map is intended to help identify areas that may be vulnerable to wildfires. No one is completely invulnerable to the risk of wildfires.   Click here for larger image

Property owners in the vulnerability areas should consider taking preventative measures against the threat of wildfires, to include:

• Clearing a 30 foot buffer around your dwelling.
• Replacing plastic soffits with non-combustible soffits.
• Installing a sprinkler system that includes the roof.

Risk Factors

Some areas may be more vulnerable than others due to:  

• Types of vegetation fuels in your area.
• Population densities and frequency of prescribed burns.
• Historical burn experience.
• Possible limitations to access to your area.
• Possible limitations to access to a sustainable water supply in your area.

For more information, contact: The Florida Division of Forestry, (386) 822-5768 Volusia County Fire Services, (386) 254-4657 or your municipal fire department.