Rural Fire Safety

Life-Saving Tips

•   Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home.  Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year.  Consider installing a 1-year lithium battery-powered smoke alarm, which is sealed so it cannot be tampered with or opened.

•   When building a home or addition, use fire-resistant roofing materials.  Avoid using wood materials that offer the least fire protection.  Also use fire-resistant siding such as stucco, brick, stone, etc.

•   Let your landscape defend your property.  Create defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet of your home.

•   Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home and other structures.

•   Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside the home, at least 30 feet away from structures and wood fences.

•   Burning yard waste is a fire hazard.  Please call the Peru Fire Department at 472-2410 for burning restrictions.

•   Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a certified specialist.

•   Provide emergency vehicle access with properly constructed driveways and roadways, at least 12 feet wide with adequate turnaround space.

•   Post home address signs that are clearly visible from the road.

•   Develop and practice fire escape and evacuation plans with your family.