There isn't too much that can be done on small properties (I have one acre). But I have a few fir trees, and try to keep them limbed as far up as I can reach with an extension saw.

Three-quarters of my place is field grass, so I keep it mowed, and trim it again just before July 4th. I live near a reservation, and they have about 130 fireworks stands (the illegal ones are the most popular).

My biggest threat in case of fire is a row of fir trees about 15-20 ft west of the house (on the windward side, naturally). The first morons who lived here planted these trees (which get 250' tall) three feet apart. When they got about 50 ft tall, they topped them, making them even more dangerous. The estimate I got for removing them was $2,000+. Did I mention that the power lines run through them?

I live four miles from the reservation. A couple of weeks ago, when things were so hot and dry, right in the middle of a strict burn ban, one of the Natives decided to set off fireworks and started a fire. Then he ran and hid from the law. When he was found, he tried to blame the fire on kids. The main moneymaker for the tribe (the casino) was directly downwind. My place is four miles in a straight line downwind. If they hadn't been able to stop it, I MIGHT have been able to get home in time to collect the animals and a few things to run with.

Plan for the worst, and never underestimate the stupidity of your neighbors.