Wildfire Information

Fire is a serious risk in Colorado and Hidden Village is no exception. Please remember: NO OPEN FLAMES and NO FIREWORKS!

Please watch for information for our annual chipping events on our Calendar to dispose of slash from your Wildfire Mitigation efforts!

Tips from South Metro Fire Rescue

  • It is okay to leave dead trees that are more than 50 feet away from homes for use as habitat, but the dead trees along roadways should be removed to help protect evacuation routes and access for firefighters.
  • Take steps to thin out groves of small ponderosa pines where there are dozens of young trees all growing together. Removing some of the trees will provide better growing conditions (water, soil nutrients, sunlight, room for growth) for the remaining ones.
  • Remove low-hanging branches on mature pines within 50 feet of homes. Those low branches allow flames to climb into tree canopies. Ponderosa pines are fire resistant, but if flames reach the canopies, they will burn fast and hot.
  • Remove all juniper species within 30 feet of homes, barns, and other structures.
  • Trim all tree branches away from walls, gutters, eaves, soffits, and roofing.
  • Some residents have gates on their driveways that require codes. The gates that utilize Knox Box technology are fine, but the other code systems could pose a challenge to emergency responders for more than just wildfires. Owners are encouraged to share those gate codes with South Metro Fire Rescue. Email ReducingRisk@southmetro.org with updated codes or to schedule a phone call to communicate that information.
  • For the neighborhood’s livestock owners, it is suggested that livestock stay in place while humans evacuate. Most corrals are great safety zones for livestock, especially those with sturdy, non-flammable fencing, dirt surface, and troughs for water.

Want help evaluating your property?

South Metro Fire Rescue can provide free advice. Contact Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist at 720.989.2273 or email einar.jensen@southmetro.org.

Below are more helpful resources:

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