Although fall is approaching, we must remember that fire season is year-round for those of us who live in Southern California. The Gavilan Fire occurred on February 10, 2002, and destroyed 47 homes and burned more than 5,000 acres.

Defensible space is typically the 100-foot-radius zone around your home or buildings.

The 100-foot clearance does not mean complete clearing. Create a pleasing natural-looking landscaped garden and property by staggering plants, shrubs and trees, thus reducing the chance of a direct fire path to your home.

Spacing may require removing some vegetation and plant...