Fires across the state are forcing people to evacuate their homes, but there is a way to protect your home from the fire before you leave.

The Dairy Road Fire damaged one residence and destroyed two outbuildings, but some homes were protected by just taking some extra precautions.

Fire officials say to keep your grass very well watered, run your sprinklers and remove leaf litter or debris on your roof and in your gutters. Trim trees leading up to your home and having having fire resistant building materials helps.

"We have seen a lot of evacuations of hundreds of residents across the state over the last several weeks," says Ludie Ehlers with The Division of Forestry. "There are things people can do in a short period of time to make their home safer in case they have to evacuate as a wildfire approaches."

With Memorial Day weekend around the corner, Fire Officials are asking people to take caution with any activities outdoors that could start a fire.

Fire Officials say if you see anybody that is doing something that could start a fire call 9-1-1.

By Nathalie Pozo, WCJB TV20 News