GRANTS PASS, Ore. – As we get further into fire season, the chance of a fire threatening your home grows.

NewsWatch 12 spoke with Rural Metro Fire about some of the best ways you can maintain your property and defend your home against a wildfire.

• Ensure your address is up to date for first responders. If you have a gate code, make sure the code is included with your address so first responders can get access to your home in an emergency.
• Maintain defensible space by regularly clearing out gutters, raking dry fire fuels away from your home and trimming lower limbs on trees
• Remove all brush 35-50ft. within your home’s perimeter
• Keep grass as short as possible and green. Check with your local fire department for mowing restrictions.
• Have a charged garden hose attached to all outlet spicket’s that are on the outside of your home
• Ensure each hose has a nozzle and water bucket

If you are within an evacuation zone, here are some ways you can prepare your home.

• Put all patio and porch cushions indoors
• Gather valuables and place in an easily accessible location
• Have a plan for your pets
• Close all windows in your home
• Open drapes but keep metal Venetian blinds closed
• If you have a sprinkler system, be aware that the loss of power can have an effect on the ability to use your garden hose or sprinklers so have a back-up plan
• Park your vehicle facing towards the exit to make for an easy escape