May 1, 2025 

COUNTRY Financial® Offers Tips and Resources for People and Businesses as Part of Wildfire Awareness Month 

Bloomington, IL – COUNTRY Financial is emphasizing steps people, families and business owners can take to prevent and combat wildfires. The effort is part of Wildfire Awareness Month, a time when everyone from first responders to community leaders and government agencies enlist the public’s help in combatting the increased prevalence of wildfires.

While some wildfires may be sparked by lightning strikes, research shows that the majority are caused by humans, either intentionally or through careless behavior. The public can make a positive difference by paying attention to weather alerts, being mindful of fire restrictions as well as adopting safe practices to prevent wildfires from starting in the first place.

“Across the nation, the frequency and severity of wildfires is accelerating at a concerning rate,” says Alexander Reljic, COUNTRY Financial National Property Product Director. “Through preparation and smart practices, people and communities can minimize their risk of experiencing devastating losses associated with a severe wildfire. But this requires that people take proactive steps.”

Homeowners near wooded areas have a particular role they can play by working in advance to prepare their property, homes and businesses. Properties are best protected through the creation of defensible spaces including grass, rock, or evergreen ground cover closest to homes, creating an area where fires have little to burn. These spaces can slow or stop spread and can protect homes and businesses from catching fire, either from direct flame contact or intense heat. Defensible space also is important for supporting the safety and well-being of firefighters.

Additional wildfire prevention tips include:

• Clearing leaves and debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks to prevent embers from igniting.
• Removing dead vegetation and items under decks and porches, and within 10 feet of homes.
• Using mesh screening for areas below patios and decks with prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.
• Removing flammable materials such as firewood and propane tanks within 30 feet of a home’s foundation, including garages, sheds and outbuildings.
• Pruning trees so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet from the ground to prevent fire from treetops.
• Keeping lawns hydrated. Dry grass, brush, and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.
• Disposing of debris and lawn cuttings quickly to reduce fuel for fire.
• Inspecting shingles or roof tiles and replacing those with damage to prevent ember penetration.
• Covering exterior attic vents with metal wire mesh to prevent sparks from entering the home.
• Enclosing under-eave and soffit vents or screens with metal mesh to prevent ember entry.
• When camping, ensuring that campfires are completely doused.

It’s also recommended that home and business owners assemble emergency supply kits including important documents, medications and personal identification. It’s also recommended that people develop emergency plans and practice them at home with family or with business colleagues. This includes establishing designated safe meeting places should evaluation and relocation be necessary.

You can learn more by visiting resources like: NFPA - Firewise USA®

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