Firescaping is a style of landscape design incorporating strategically placed features to block or contain wildfire progress. Even a 2m wide firebreak can make a difference. In one study, experiments with fire intensities and firebreak widths demonstrated how a 2m firebreak could reduce breach of wildfire by 38.7% given a fire intensity rating of 3 (fire intensities were rated using a formula that accounted for wind speed and landscape slope). The study showed that a 6m firebreak reduced chance of breach by 97%!
For larger acreages and farms with the space for wider firebreaks, consider that with a 10m firebreak, a fire with a FI of 18 and a 5.76m flame height, there was only an 11.3% chance of breach.
In Australia, where a dry and arid climate gives rise to frequent wildfires, FESA – Fire And Emergency Solutions Australia recommends a firebreak 4 times the height of the fuel, meaning tree orientation and density in and around your property is a major factor in fire spread.
A firebreak can include a stone garden wall or fence, retaining wall or a stone and gravel path. It can also simply be a bare dirt alleyway or a stretch of lush green grass.
Bryton Orr of Crossfire Custom Contracting advises to consider which is your windward side, which side has neighbors with close flammable structures, and which side faces south when you are planning hardscape locations (stone patios, walkways and garden walls).
Block and stone structures can also add to your fire deterrent plan and serve as a legacy for centuries. Stone greenhouse bases, stables, barns, chicken coops and sheds lend an old-world, timeless appeal that are impervious to fire.
Articles discussed and additional content including a handy fire-resistant landscape guide are linked below.
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/pnw618
Bennett et.al. Reducing Fire Risk on Your Forest Property. PNW Catalog. 2010. 618.
https://www.mdpi.com/2571-6255/5/5/156
Brou ADV. Numerical Study of the Effectiveness of a Firebreak in a Savanna Area and the Sizing Rules by an Optimised Fire Propagation Model. Fire. 2022; 5(5):156. https://doi.org/10.3390/fire5050156