Five Ways to Protect Your Home from Wildfire

Fire-Resistant Strategies for Western Homes

At 2,000°F, nothing stops a conflagration, but lesser fires can be survived with preparation. Homes typically burn when windblown embers ignite the roof—the best precaution is a Class A fire-resistant roof (cost difference is minimal).

Key Principles

1. Use fire-resistant materials wherever possible.
2. Deny fire entry points: cover eave overhangs, close off deck underpinnings.
3. Don't let tinder accumulate on roof, gutters, vents, under decks.
4. Address windows and skylights: reduce size/number facing wooded areas; eliminate skylights; use thermal-pane glass; consider metal shutters and fire-resistant curtains.
5. Avoid extra fuel and pathways: wooden trellises, fences, sheds.