Boulder Fire

[GraniteStater]

Originally Posted by Northern Maine Land Man

As a fireman since 1957, the forest service and fire departments call it "defensible space". That and not putting cedar shingles on your roof will go a long way toward saving your house.

So how much of a buffer zone would you advise for those of us that prefer a woodsy yard, but trees not too close to the house?

[BoxCar Willie]

As for large fires like Boulder, You can thanks the State of Maine and Forest service [and budgetary woes ]. Maine used to have an extensive layout of fire watch towers all thru the state. Sadly it's now regulated to aircraft flying around [they do a good job BUT it aint a live person on a hill or mountain looking around constantly] Only 3 towers in York County are manned now and those are volunteers from Southern Maine Fire Notification Assoc. [a group of fire buffs and retired firefighters]

The best way to protect life,and property is to keep a sharp eye out. IF you smell smoke call it in right away. read up on the 1947 fires they had in Maine. [very interesting book on it as well]

If you have a voluteer department don't worry while most VFD's may be a bit slow responding, ALL have a Mutual Aid agreement with other towns and neighboring cities. [even in cities they have volunteer firefighters to offset thier ranks]. If you can do the training, join your department. It is time well worth spent learning much while helping your community [if i can do it while working 60 to 80 hrs a week just about anyone can.] You don't need to be machoman there is a job at a fire for everyone . You go to the station when they're there you can also get good info on lots of questions

[Northern Maine Land Man]

GraniteStater, It depends on the type of vegetation and whether the ground cover is flammable. Green lawns don't burn. Pine needles and dry duff burn very well. In addition to vegetation type, the height of trees is a factor. In an ideal situation a fire would simply run out of fuel before reaching your camp.

The Maine Forest Service has some pamphlets on the subject. The problem is that when you follow the recommendations of one state agency another state agency may try to fine you. The DEP and MFS don't get along well together. This isn't some hunch or superstition. It is based on rules and practice by state agencies.