Before a brush fire breaks out, make sure you have the necessary equipment to put it out. Keep an approved fire extinguisher or a pressurized garden hose with an attached nozzle within 10 feet of any grass or brush clearance operation.

Extinguishing the Fire

If the fire department is late, follow these steps to put out the brush fire:

Call 911: Even if the fire department is late, it’s essential to call 911 to report the fire and get an estimated time of arrival.
Use a fire extinguisher: If the fire is small and contained, use an approved fire extinguisher rated for Class B fires (flammable liquids and gases) or Class D fires (combustible metals). Make sure to follow the PASS method:
+ P – Pull the safety pin or ring
+ A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
+ S – Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
+ S – Sweep the nozzle back and forth, covering the entire area of the fire with the extinguishing agent
Use a pressurized garden hose: If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, use a pressurized garden hose with an attached nozzle to douse the fire. Make sure to aim the nozzle at the base of the fire and use a steady, controlled stream of water to extinguish the flames.
Remove fuel: If the fire is spreading, try to remove any combustible materials, such as dry leaves, twigs, or branches, to deprive the fire of fuel.
Create a firebreak: If the fire is too large to extinguish, create a firebreak by clearing a path of at least 10 feet wide and removing any combustible materials. This will help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.

Additional Tips

Stay safe: When fighting a brush fire, wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid using water to fight a fire in a dry, windy area, as it can spread the fire.
Notify neighbors: Inform your neighbors about the fire and ask them to evacuate the area if necessary.
Be prepared for the fire department’s arrival: When the fire department arrives, be prepared to provide them with information about the fire, including its location, size, and any hazards.