Over the past several years, wildfires have become an increasing concern throughout California and especially in communities like ours that are located near open space and natural vegetation. One important thing we have learned from recent fires is that many homes are not lost from the main fire front, but from wind-blown embers that travel ahead of the fire and ignite vulnerable areas around homes.

Because of this, there are many small and relatively inexpensive things homeowners can do that can make a significant difference in reducing wildfire risk.

This is not about mandates or requirements. It is about being proactive as a community and helping protect our homes and neighborhood.

Small improvements around a home can greatly reduce the chance that embers could start a fire. Examples include keeping leaves and pine needles out of gutters and roof valleys, avoiding bark mulch right next to the house, using gravel or rock near the foundation, screening attic and foundation vents, keeping the area under decks clear of debris, moving firewood away from the house, and trimming plants so they are not touching walls or windows.

Insurance is also becoming a major issue in wildfire-prone areas. Insurance companies are increasingly evaluating wildfire risk when renewing or issuing policies. Communities where homeowners are actively reducing wildfire risk may be viewed more favorably than communities that do nothing.

Another important reason to reduce wildfire risk is to help firefighters. During a wildfire, firefighters often have to decide which homes can be safely defended and which cannot. Homes that are better maintained and less vulnerable to ember ignition are safer to defend and less likely to spread fire to neighboring homes.

The purpose of this website and forum is to share ideas and information so neighbors can learn from each other about ways to reduce wildfire risk around their homes. No one is being told what they must do. The goal is simply to share ideas, photos, and experiences that may help protect our homes and community.