Weed abatement and hazard elimination helps firefighters protect homes and property. Diane Sieker photo
When authorities talk about defensible space – the area between a home and a potential fiery disaster – they are being deadly serious. Mowing, weedwacking, pruning and relocating combustible materials like firewood piles are advised. Anza Valley residents are familiar with the dangers of not maintaining a buffer zone and the importance of employing hazard reduction methods to keep it in good shape.In 2005 a new state law came into effect that extended the defensible space clearance around homes and structures from 30 feet to 100 feet.Proper and safely conducted clearance to 100 feet increases the chance that a house will survive a wildfire. This buffer also provides for firefighter safety as they work to protect structures and property from a wildfire.Light fuels s
