In a roaring wildfire, low-hanging branches can turn trees into torches in a matter of minutes. Early this month, as part of creating defensible space around your home, "prune" up trees, removing branches 6 feet or less from the ground. Branches overhanging the roof or eaves also should be removed, along with any dead wood. Wood saved for kindling should be stored well away from any structure. If possible, water trees deeply; the extra moisture adds to their fire-resistance, especially at the end of a particularly hot summer.