You might not attend the meeting, but the topic affects you.
   Fire prevention, that is.
   This weekend brings the first day of summer, a timely milestone for keeping in mind that this time of year, for firefighters, does not make for a Gershwin melody.

Summertime and the living is NOT easy. The weather is getting warmer, the terrain is getting drier, and everyone has a role in preventing fires.

An article on page A5 details a series of upcoming meetings on June 22-24 around the county that will be of interest to owners of property abutting forests or grasslands.

Property owners can take this opportunity to learn about a new state ratings system designed to prevent destructive fires. The Oregon Department of Forestry and State Fire Marshal’s office will hold the meetings in Hood River, Parkdale and Cascade Locks.

The act gives property owners guidelines for protecting their homes and communities. Some property owners have been notified if their lands fall under the requirements of the Act.

But even if you have not been so identified, or have no plans to attend any of the meetings, this is the time to think about the practical concept of “defensible space”:

Is your structure located near trees or grass that could represent a threat in case of fire?

Basic steps under defensible space involve creating a 30-foot open barrier around your home and removing dead and dying debris from your property.

The idea is to deprive a fire of fuel and to take away materials that could ignite from airborne sparks — common results from even relatively small fires.

A defensible space also allows room for firefighters — and you — to safely fight a fire.

This is the time of year to examine your property to help meet this critical safety need. Even if you live in a neighborhood without forest or open space, take a look around and examine the space around your home and the homes around you.

Study your landscape. It’s as simple as knowing where your neighbor’s garden hose is, and that he or she knows how to find yours.