Defensible House

The manner in which a house is designed, the location on which it is built, and the type of material utilized in the construction all have considerable influence on the defensibility from wildfire. Use the following guidelines to make your home more fire safe.

Roof: The roof is the most vulnerable feature of a structure to wildfire. Replacing untreated wood shake or shingles with fire-resistant (Class A or B)roof covering is the only long-term solution to reducing the wildfire threat.

Rain Gutters: Gutters must be cleared of leaves and pine needles.

Siding: Combustible siding reduces the survivability of the structure.

Vents: Cover all exterior vents with one-half inch or smaller wire mesh.

Chimneys: Chimneys are required to have a screen of 1/4 inch or smaller wire mesh.

Windows: Install dual-paned or tempered glass and have fire-resistant drapes. Pre-cut plywood panels should be available to cover the windows during a fire.

Decks: The area below decks should be screened or enclosed, and free of flammable material.

Trash: The property should be clear of accumulations of combustible trash.

Combustible Material: Firewood should be stored a minimum of 30 feet from structures.

Smoke Detectors: Install smoke detectors in all sleeping and living areas in the home.

Property Address: Should be prominently displayed.

Propane Tanks: Should be clear of flammable vegetation.

Tree Limbs: Should be clear from chimneys and power lines.

Tools: Shovels, ladder, garden hoses, bucket, and fire extinguisher should be readily available.