Protecting Our Homes and Community
Our community is located in a high wildfire risk area, and in recent years we have all seen how quickly fires can spread, especially during wind events. The goal of this site is not to tell anyone what they must do, but to share information and ideas so homeowners can make informed decisions about their own properties.
Many homes are not lost from the main wall of fire, but from wind-blown embers that can travel long distances ahead of a fire. These embers can land in leaves, mulch, gutters, roof valleys, or against structures and start small fires that can grow and ignite a home.
The good news is that many wildfire risks can be reduced with maintenance and small improvements around the home.
The Area Closest to Your House Matters Most
Wildfire experts often say the area within the first few feet around a house is the most important area to keep clear of combustible materials. If embers land right next to a wall, window, or door and ignite something in that area, the fire can quickly spread to the structure.
Things to consider near the house:
- Avoid bark or wood mulch right next to walls
- Keep leaves and pine needles cleared away
- Avoid storing firewood against the house
- Move outdoor cushions and doormats away during high wind events
- Trim plants so they are not touching walls or windows
- Keep the area under decks clear of debris and stored items
- Consider gravel, rock, or pavers near the foundation instead of mulch
Small changes in this area can make a meaningful difference.
Roofs, Gutters, and Roof Valleys
Embers often land on roofs and in gutters. Leaves and debris in gutters or roof valleys can ignite and start fires that spread to the structure.
Things to consider:
- Keep gutters clear of leaves and debris
- Check roof valleys where leaves collect
- Consider gutter guards
- Remove pine needles and leaves from the roof
- Inspect the roof before and during fire season
Vents and Openings
Embers can enter attics or crawl spaces through vents if they are not protected.
Some homeowners are installing ember-resistant vents or fine metal screening over vents to reduce the chance of embers entering the structure.
Landscaping and Yard Areas
Landscaping does not have to be removed, but spacing and plant selection can help reduce risk.
Ideas many homeowners are considering:
- Separate shrubs so they are not touching each other
- Keep plants trimmed and maintained
- Remove dead plants and dry vegetation
- Use drip irrigation where possible
- Replace bark mulch near the house with gravel or rock
- Keep grass trimmed
- Avoid large dense shrubs directly against structures
Decks, Fences, and Structures
Areas under decks and along fences can collect leaves and debris and become places where embers can start fires.
Things to consider:
- Clear leaves and debris from under decks
- Avoid storing combustible materials under decks
- Be aware of wood fences connected directly to the house
- Keep vegetation from growing under decks and against fences
The Goal Is Risk Reduction, Not Perfection
No property can be completely fireproof, but reducing places where embers can start fires can significantly improve the chances of a home surviving a wildfire.
When many homes in a neighborhood take steps to reduce risk, it can also help protect the entire community and make it safer for firefighters to defend homes.
This site is intended to share ideas, examples, and information so residents can see what others are doing and decide what makes sense for their own homes and yards.