Turnarounds:

Dead end roads without a suitable turnaround area are a deterrent to firefighters.

Homes located at the end of long driveways or dead-end roads should have turnaround areas suitable for large fire equipment. Without a turnaround area, firefighters may be reluctant to place engines near the home.

Homes located at the end of long driveways should have turnaround areas for fire equipment.

Turnarounds can be a cul-de-sac at least 45 feet in radius or a location suitable for a three-point turn.

Road Width and Grade:

Roads and long driveways that are too steep may prevent firefighters from protecting a home.

Roads and long driveways should be at least 12 feet wide with a steepness grade of less than 12%..

Address:

Address signs should be fire resistant.

The home address should be readily visible from the street. The address sign should be made of fire-resistant material with characters at least 4 inches high.

The address should be clearly visible from the street.

Driveway Clearance:

Driveways should be free of flammable vegetation and overhead obstruction.

Flammable vegetation should be removed from at least 10 feet on both sides of the driveway. Overhead obstructions, such as overhanging branches and power lines, should be removed or raised to provide at least a 15-foot vertical clearance.

Turnouts:

Narrow roads and long driveways should have turnouts to allow for evacuation and the arrival of firefighting resources.

Homes located at the end of long, narrow streets and dead ends can discourage firefighters and complicate evacuation. If possible, create turnouts in the driveway that will allow two-way traffic.

Street Signs:

Street signs should be noncombustible.

Street signs should be posted at each intersection leading to your home. Each sign should feature characters that are at least 4 inches high and should be made of reflective, noncombustible material.

Bridges and Culverts:

All bridges and culverts leading to a home should be posted with load limits. Inappropriately designed structures may prevent firefighting equipment from reaching your home. Ask your local fire marshal about proper bridge and culvert design for your area.