In 2007, the state's worst wildfire season in history, wildfires burned about a half million acres.

Wildfires generally occur in Georgia in the dry spring months, but they can strike at any time.  Homeowners can take steps to reduce the risk of losing their homes to wildfires with some simple fire prevention steps.  

Protect your home from wildfires

• Create a 30-foot firebreak or safety zone around your house, keeping it free of debris and flammable vegetation.
• Regularly clean your roof and gutters of leaves and pine needles.
• Remove any dead tree branches that extend over your roof and make sure they are clear of the chimney. 
• Keep grass mowed around your house and free of leaves and pine needles.
• Keep flammable materials away from the base of all buildings.
• Stack firewood at least 100 feet from your home.
• Keep yard free of trash and debris.
• Remove plants that provide a link between the ground and tree limbs near your home.

For more information about wildfires, visit the Georgia Forestry Commission at http://www.gatrees.org/.