Prepare for Wildfires

Home hardening involves making your home more resistant to wildfires by using fire-resistant materials and designs. Key areas to focus on include:

• Roofing: Use Class A fire-rated materials like metal or asphalt shingles.
• Vents: Install 1/8-inch mesh screens to block embers.
• Windows: Opt for dual-pane, tempered glass to withstand heat.
• Siding: Choose non-combustible materials like stucco or fiber cement.

Implementing these measures can significantly reduce your home’s vulnerability. For detailed checklists, visit IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home or explore our prevention tips.

Defensible space is a buffer zone around your home that reduces flammable vegetation and materials, giving firefighters a better chance to protect your property. It’s divided into three zones:

• Zone 1 (0-5 feet): Remove all flammable materials, including mulch and plants, near your home.
• Zone 2 (5-30 feet): Keep grass mowed, space trees, and remove dead vegetation.
• Zone 3 (30-100 feet): Thin trees and remove underbrush to reduce fire intensity.

Maintaining these zones is critical in wildfire-prone areas. Learn more at CAL FIRE or see our prevention section.

Fire-smart landscaping involves choosing plants and designs that reduce fire risk. Key practices include:

• Plant Selection: Use fire-resistant plants like succulents or native species with high moisture content.
• Spacing: Space plants and trees to prevent fire spread.
• Maintenance: Regularly prune and remove dead vegetation.

Proper landscaping can enhance your home’s defense against wildfires. For regional plant guides, check US Forest Service or visit our prevention page.

A wildfire action plan outlines steps your household will take during a wildfire. Key components include:

• Communication Plan: Designate an out-of-area contact to coordinate family members.
• Meeting Points: Identify safe locations outside high-risk areas.
• Practice Drills: Regularly rehearse your plan to ensure everyone knows what to do.

Create your plan today with guidance from CAL FIRE Ready Set Go or explore our safety info.

Preparing your family involves education and practice to ensure everyone is ready for a wildfire. Steps include:

• Educate: Teach children about wildfire risks and safety measures.
• Drills: Conduct evacuation drills to familiarize everyone with escape routes.
• Resources: Use age-appropriate materials to engage kids.

For family-friendly resources, visit American Red Cross or see our resources page.

An emergency go bag contains essentials for quick evacuation. Include:

• Documents: Copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records.
• Supplies: Water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, and N95 masks.
• Personal Items: Medications, clothing, and pet supplies.

Build your go bag with help from Ready.gov Kit or check our emergency kits section.

Reviewing your insurance policy ensures adequate coverage for wildfire damage. Key steps include:

• Verify Coverage: Confirm your policy covers wildfire-related losses.
• Document Assets: Create an inventory of your belongings.
• Update Policies: Adjust coverage based on home improvements or increased risks.

For guidance, consult resources at Insurance Information Institute or visit our resources page.

An effective evacuation plan ensures you can leave quickly and safely. Steps include:

• Know Your Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home.
• Stay Informed: Monitor alerts via apps or local authorities.
• Act Early: Leave as soon as evacuation is recommended to avoid delays.

Learn more at Ready.gov Evacuation or explore our evacuation planning section.