Firewise

How it works

The Mississippi Forestry Commission’s Firewise program is an educational program for homeowners and community leaders. It is meant to help people design, construct, landscape, and maintain homes and communities so they can better withstand wildfires.

What the program covers

The official page says Firewise teaches homeowners about:

• Home ignition zones, including the immediate zone 0 to 5 feet around the house, the intermediate zone 5 to 30 feet, and the extended zone 30 to 100 feet.
• Limiting flammable vegetation.
• Choosing fire-resistant building materials and construction techniques.
• Periodic exterior maintenance.
• Trimming branches over porches, decks, and the home.
• Pruning tree branches.
• Keeping street names and numbers clearly marked.
• Making driveways at least 12 feet wide with 15 feet of vertical clearance for emergency vehicle access.
• Other wildfire-prevention practices like moving firewood away from the home and using fire-resistant plants.

Amounts and matching

This is a free educational program. The page does not describe a cash benefit, rebate, or match.

How to apply

The page says Firewise workshops are free, but pre-registration is required. Meals, refreshments, and workshop materials are provided.

Timing and deadlines

The page does not list deadlines. It says to contact the Mississippi Forestry Commission Firewise coordinator to get started with planning a Firewise event in Mississippi.