May is Wildfire Awareness Month, and Central Coos Fire & Rescue (CCF&R) wants homeowners to work together to become better prepared for wildfires by reducing the risk on their property and in their neighborhood. Each year, wildland fires consume homes in the wildland-urban interface – defined as areas where homes are built near or among lands prone to wildland fire. Studies show that as many as 80% of homes lost to wildland fire may have been saved if brush around the homes were cleared and defensible space created around structures. Central Coos Fire & Rescue is hosting a Wildfire Awareness Event on May 18th from 11am – 2pm at their Millington Station on Millington Frontage Rd. This is a free community event featuring a free hot dog lunch, a kids firefighter challenge with prizes, and guest appearances by the CCF&R Fire Pup mascot. To find out more about the event visit Central Coos Fire & Rescue Facebook page and event page. CCF&R wants to make sure everyone knows what to do to protect people and homes in case of fire: Prepare around your home. If your home is built in or near the forest, follow these steps to protect your home from wildfire. When developing your home landscaping, try planting fire-resistant plants to help reduce your risk from wildfire. Know the outdoor burning rules. Don’t burn outdoors until you know the rules. Have a plan when it’s time to leave – Ready, Set, Go!