Headwaters Economics recently released a report that 1 in 8 homes built between 1990 and 2016 was in a wildfire hazard area. They say US Forest Service data was used to compile the report.
Kelly Pohl with Headwaters Economics says it costs $4 million in firefighting liability annually due to new homes in wildfire areas.
“These are places that are very prone to wildfire and it doesn’t mean we can’t grow in these places or live in these places it just means if we’re going to we should use safer building techniques and fuels management techniques to protect our property and our lives,” says Pohl.
Patrick Lonergan, Director Of Emergency Management for Gallatin County, says homeowners can protect their home by taking steps to reduce flammability. Steps include removing brush from near the home, storing firewood away from the house and using shingles which will not trap embers.
He suggests people visit the county website for additional tips and to register for notification in case of emergency.
Click here to read the Headwaters Economics study.
