How To Protect Your Home From Wildfires

The widespread fires across the state have many homeowners wondering what they can do to protect their homes from fires.

Monday, August 6th 2012, 11:08 pm

By: News 9


The widespread fires across the state have many homeowners wondering what they can do to protect their homes from fires.

Investigators believe the massive fires in Luther are the handiwork of an arsonist. While that may be true, State Rep. Richard Morrissette says an accomplice should be held accountable, mother nature and her Eastern Red Cedar trees.

Oklahoma Wildfires: Complete Coverage

Oklahoma saw proof throughout the weekend, cedar tree after tree, then homes engulfed. About 93,000 acres in Oklahoma burned, and experts say green may be pretty, but it's highly flammable.

"What we consider fuel is anything above the ground," said Brian Hall of the Forestry Division.

Hall said there are several things you can do to protect your property. You can start by cutting things back, avoid cedars and opt for broad leaf trees like Oak, Hickory and Redbuds.

Morrissette wrote bills to have cedar trees removed, but they've failed for three year.

Now some homeowners are axing cedars are their own.

"Wildlife just won't live around cedars trees, turkeys leave quail leave none of them stay. They are just a menace to Oklahoma," said Ray Lowery of Bobcat Rentals.

Morrissette plans on re-introducing the bill which would eradicate cedar tree. He says he has worked with privately owned companies that will absorb the cost for the tree removal, or he will ensure homeowners could get tax credits, that is if the bill passes in the next session.

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