QUINCY, Mass. — During the summer of 1910, forest fires burned an estimated 3 million acres in Idaho and Montana.  The incident, known as the Great Fire of 1910, killed 78 firefighters and ranks second on the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) list of deadliest incidents in the U.S. resulting in the deaths of eight or more firefighters.

According to www.foresthistory.org, “the 1910 forest fire in the Northern Rocky Mountain Region is an episode which has had much to do with shaping the fire policy not only of that region but also the whole United States. The tragic and disastrous culmination of that battle to save the forests shocked the nation into a realization of the necessity of a better system of fire control.”

Wildfire doesn’t have to burn everything in its path. In fact, clearing property of debris and regular landscaping are important first steps to reduce the risk for wildfire damage. The NFPA offers eight steps that can reduce the risk of your home and property from becoming fuel for a wildfire.

1. Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. This prevents embers from igniting a home.

2. Keep the lawn hydrated and maintained. Dry grass and shrubs are fuel for wildfire.

3. Remove fuel within 3 to 5 feet of a home’s foundation and outbuildings including garages and sheds. If it can catch fire, don’t let it touch your house, deck or porch.

4. Clear vegetation surrounding a home, at least 30 to 100 feet depending on the area’s wildfire risk.

5. Wildfire can spread to tree tops. If the yard has large trees on the property, prune so the lowest branches are 6 to 10 feet high.

6. Don’t let debris and lawn cuttings linger. Dispose of these items quickly to reduce fuel for fire.

7. When planting, choose slow-growing, carefully placed shrubs and trees so the area can be more easily maintained.

8. Landscape with native and less-flammable plants. A local state forestry agency or county extension office can provide plant information.

For more information and tips, visit www.nfpa.org.