State officials share wildfire safety tips for homeowners

A wildfire has burned hundreds of acres in McDowell County in western North Carolina. It comes as state officials have been urging homeowners to prepare for this possibility. 

State leaders are especially concerned about fires in places where housing blends into undeveloped wildland or forest, as they pose the most danger to property and human life. 

Western North Carolina is at higher risk this year due to excess storm debris from Helene. That’s according to a press release from the North Carolina Forest Service. 

Several steps can be taken to help protect a home. Officials say these include clearing pine needles and leaves from roofs, gutters, and patios, trimming shrubs near structures, and using gravel instead of mulch for landscaping. For areas where mulch is already in place, raking it at least five feet away from buildings may help reduce risk.

Storing outdoor furniture and potted plants is a good idea too, as they can catch embers and ignite fires. 

More tips can be found on the Forest Service’s website. 

*Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect the wildfires in McDowell County.