Last summer's wildfires charred more than a million acres across California in one of the worst fire seasons in recorded history. These wildfires destroyed hundreds of homes and burned dangerously close to thousands of others.

As temperatures begin to increase and conditions continue to dry out the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is urging residents to take advantage of this time to create a 100 foot zone of defensible space around their homes.

"Last year's wildfires once again highlighted how important it is for homeowners to prepare their homes to survive a wildfire," said Chief Del Walters, CAL FIRE director. "By simply removing dead and dying leaves, brush and trees 100 feet from homes and following a few simple steps, homeowners can dramatically decrease the chance of their home being destroyed by a wildfire."

Here are some tips that can help homes survive wildfires:

- Remove all flammable vegetation 30 feet from all structures.

- In an additional 70 feet, space trees and plants away from each other.

- Clear all needles and leaves from roofs, eaves and rain gutters.

- Trim branches six feet from the ground.

- Use trimming, mowing and power equipment before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m., not in the heat of the day and not during extremely dry and windy days.

- Landscape with fire resistant plants.

- Use fire ignition resistant building materials

For more information on defensible space, visit the CAL FIRE Web site at www.fire.ca.gov.