Firebreaks: Heat reduction

Heat reduction strip mowing is advised in tall native warm season grasses to reduce heat intensity adjacent to the firebreak. Mow the grass on the inside of the firebreak to a height of 10-15 inches for a width of 8-15 feet. In woodland burns, move downed treetops and redcedars toward the center of the burn unit to reduce fireline heat intensity and the chance of spot fires. If redcedars cure for a few years before burning, they will drop their needles which reduces the likelihood of spot fires.