Planning for a Fire Safe Grossmont – Mt Helix Community 

Wildfires are a threat to property and residents throughout California, causing millions of dollars in damage and endangering lives. Communities in the state should take proactive measures to protect our homes against the conditions that cause fire.

GMIA is working with the help of the Rancho Helix de Oro Fire Council to inform our community with ideas to create a safer environment.

Is Your Property Wild-Fire Ready?

Home Preparation:

• Vents: Upgrade to 1/8-inch metal mesh to resist embers.
• Rain Gutters: Keep gutters clear of leaves and needles.
• Fences: Use noncombustible materials within 5 feet of your home.
• Address: Ensure your address is clearly visible from the road.

Maintain Defensible Space:

• Create a 5-foot noncombustible zone around your home and deck.
• Maintain a 100-foot defensible space barrier:
• Space out plants.
• Trim brush and thin trees, ensuring separation between the ground and tree branches.
• Avoid and replace plants such as palms, cypress, eucalyptus, junipers, pines.
• For more information on creating defensible space and lists of fire-resistant and undesirable plants, view document PDS 199 from www.sandiegocounty.gov.

Here are some of the licensed, bonded, and insured tree maintenance contractors. The Fire Safe Council is putting together a complete vendor list.

• Pope Tree Service
• Patriot Group
• Davey Tree-San Diego
• CM Precision
• LC Trees

Additional Resources:

• CalFire website FIRE Alerts: Sign up for real-time emergency notifications and preparedness. Also get tips ranging from home hardening to fire-smart landscaping and preparedness.
• Fire Safe Council of San Diego County: Find resources on preparing for wildfires, including before, during, and after a fire.
• The Water Conservation Garden: Access resources on fire-safe landscaping: thegarden.org

ALWAYS CALL 911 FOR EMERGENCIES