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Chapter 15:Hazard Analysis—Wildfires <br /> Well-managed grazing and other fuels management practices (mechanical / chemical / <br /> combination) reduce the risk of wildfire in WUI areas. Sporadic or no fuels management <br /> creates high risk. Unmanaged grasses (above left) are found along roads in areas with little to <br /> no grazing, including neighborhoods. At times, these fuels can reach 8-12 feet, posing <br /> considerable risk of roadside ignition. Note the differences in fuel in above right photo: <br /> pasture in foreground has active grazing; areas in background are not currently grazed and <br /> are at a higher risk of wildfire occurrence. <br /> 15.6.1.3 Reducing Structural Ignitahility <br /> Individuals and community associations can reduce structural ignitability throughout their <br /> community by taking the following measures recommended by the Firewise program as <br /> outlined below. However, due to the abundance of native vegetation, it is highly <br /> recommended that individuals and communities conduct a simple native vegetation <br /> assessment and/or consult with appropriate biologists or foresters before clearing trees and <br /> significant amounts of vegetation that may be important to protect. <br /> • Create a buffer zone of defensible space around a property of at least 30 feet or to the <br /> property line if the house has less than 30 feet of yard. Remove flammable vegetation <br /> and combustible growth within 30 feet of the house. Where there is native habitat, <br /> please consult with a biologist or forester first. <br /> • Prune tree limbs 6— 10 feet above the ground. <br /> • Space trees and shrubs ten feet apart in the yard. <br /> • Make sure that plants closest to the house are low-lying. <br /> • Whenever possible use fire-resistant Native Hawaiian species. Succulent plants are <br /> also good choices for converting fire fuels into Firewise landscaping. <br /> • Routinely remove dead leaves and other organic matter from the yard. <br /> • Sweep and/or clean gutters, eaves, and roofs regularly to prevent the build-up of <br /> leaves and other matter. <br /> • Use fire-resistant building materials for the roof, siding, and decks, such as metal, <br /> stucco, tile,brick, and cement. <br /> • Install firebrand-proof ceiling vents to prevent structure fires caused by wind-blown <br /> firebrands. <br /> 15-13 Hawaii County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan <br />