Defensible Space Zones
Zone 1 (0-5 feet): Use hardscaping, gravel, or non-combustible materials immediately around your home. Remove all dead vegetation, woodpiles, and flammable items.
Zone 2 (5-30 feet): Create lean, clean, and green landscaping. Space trees at least 10 feet apart. Remove ladder fuels (vegetation that can carry fire from ground to treetops). Keep grass mowed to 4 inches or less.
Zone 3 (30-100 feet): Reduce dense vegetation. Remove dead trees and branches. Create fuel breaks with driveways, pathways, or gravel areas.
Fire-Resistant Building Materials
Class A fire-rated roofing (metal, tile, or asphalt). Tempered or dual-pane windows. Fiber cement or stucco siding. Ember-resistant vents with 1/8-inch mesh screens. Non-combustible gutters and gutter guards. Enclosed eaves and soffits.
Emergency Preparation
Keep a go-bag ready with essentials, documents, and medications. Know your evacuation routes (have at least two). Sign up for local emergency alerts. Keep your car fueled and facing outward in the driveway during fire season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check the natural hazard risk for your county
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