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Wildfire-Ready Homes: Defensible Space and Fire Safety Basics

Living near the foothills means planning ahead. Here are the practical steps that help protect your property and family.

Wildfire-Ready Homes: Defensible Space and Fire Safety Basics Fire Safety

Wildfire is a reality for many communities near the foothills. While no plan removes all risk, thoughtful preparation can make your home far more resilient and give your family more time and options.

Create defensible space

Defensible space is the buffer between your home and the vegetation around it. Keep grass trimmed, remove dead plants and branches, and space trees so flames cannot easily travel from one to another or reach the house.

Preparation is the one thing you can control before the smoke ever appears.

Harden the house itself

  • Choose fire-resistant roofing and siding materials.
  • Cover vents with fine metal screens to block embers.
  • Keep gutters, decks and roof valleys clear of leaves and pine needles.
  • Store firewood and propane away from the house.

Install reliable alarms

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas give early warning. Test them regularly and replace batteries on schedule. Keep a fire extinguisher where you can reach it quickly.

Plan and practice

Agree on an evacuation route and a meeting place with your family. Keep a go-bag with documents, medicines and essentials near the door. Sign up for local emergency alerts so you hear news as quickly as possible.

Stay covered

Review your insurance and warranty coverage each year to make sure it reflects your home's current value and risks.

We are here to help you build a smarter, safer home, one step at a time.

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