Preparing Your Home for Wildfires

Learn from an expert how you can protect your home against wildfire damage.

On Tuesday, April 23, San Diego County Fire Services Coordinator David Sibbet gave a presentation on defensible space and home hardening techniques in preparation for fire season. As wildfires become increasingly prevalent in regions like San Diego County, it's crucial for homeowners to take proactive steps to protect their properties and loved ones. Proper preparation involves understanding the risks and implementing effective measures to mitigate them. From vegetation management to structural hardening, here's a comprehensive guide on preparing your home for wildfires.

Vegetation Management Zones: In wildfire-prone areas, creating defensible space around your home is paramount. Vegetation management aims to reduce the risk of fire spreading to your property by dividing it into three zones.

Zone 0 (0 to 5 feet from home, buildings, structures, decks, etc.):

• Replace combustible mulch with non-flammable alternatives like gravel or concrete.

• Clear dead vegetation and debris.

• Trim branches at least 10 feet away from chimneys.

• Minimize combustible items on decks and relocate firewood to Zone 2.

Zone 1 (5 to 50 feet from home, buildings, structures, decks, etc.):

• Remove dead plants, grass and weeds to minimize fire spread.

Zone 2 (50 to 100 feet from home, buildings, structures, decks, etc.):

• Cut or mow annual grass to no more than 4 inches high.

• Create a 10-foot buffer around wood piles.

Vertical and horizontal spacing is also important. Make sure to trim your trees 6 feet from the ground and increase the vertical space between shrubs and trees. Space out shrubs and trees horizontally to slow fire spread.

In addition to vegetation management, hardening your home against wildfire threats is essential. Common fire threats to the home include direct flames, radiant heat and flying embers. Embers can set homes on fire that are up to a mile away.

Roofs are the most vulnerable part of a home. To harden your roof from fire, choose fire-resistant roofing materials such as composite, metal or tile, and regularly seal gaps under roof tiles and clear debris, like leaves, to prevent ignition. Chimneys should be covered with non-flammable chimney screens, and flues should be kept closed when not in use. Cover vents with metal mesh to block embers and consider ember-resistant venting options. Install dual-pane windows with tempered glass and add screens to catch embers. And be sure to trim plants near windows. 

Walls and decks should be made from fireproof material, such as stucco or treated wood. The material should extend from the foundation to the roofline for protection. Keep space under decks clear of combustible materials. Additionally, fences should also be made of non-flammable material. 

Garages should be equipped with fire extinguishers. Garage doors should have battery backups during power outages and there should be ember seals under and around garage doors so embers cannot get in. 

Ensure your address is clear and visible for firefighters. Maintain vegetation to ensure driveways and access roads are open and accessible to emergency vehicles. Clean rain gutters regularly and provide ample hose access around your home. 

By implementing these measures, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and enhance their safety during wildfire season. Remember, preparedness is key to safeguarding against the unpredictable nature of wildfires; investing in preventive measures today can make all the difference tomorrow. If you would like more information, be sure to visit ReadyForWildfire.org.