If you live in La Pine, Madras, Prineville or Redmond, you might be eligible for $250 from the state fire marshal for reducing the fire danger around your home.

The program does not have an inspiring name — Defensible Space Assessment Incentive Reimbursement Pilot Program. Still, $250 for making a home safer is a good deal.

There’s a fairly lengthy checklist of all that must be done, including pruning; removing leaves, needles and mulch; keeping firewood away from structures and more.

The requirements are a great guide for everyone, no matter if you qualify for the program or not.

You can find more information here: tinyurl.com/250fordefense. The phone number for the marshal’s office is: 503-378-3473