Home Wildfire Hardening

Goal: Create a non-combustible buffer right next to the home

• Removing all flammable vegetation mulch, and debris. 
• Use Hardscape (gravel, concrete, pavers) instead of wood mulch. 
• Fencing: Use non-combustible material ( metal or Masonry) for the first five feet of fencing attached to the home.  
• Install gutter guards to reduce combustible leaf build-up.
• Install ember-resistant venting to prevent embers igniting attic.
• Box in eaves to reduce heat build-up
• Install roof sprinklers

Goal: Reduce fuel load and slow fire spread toward the structure.

• Trim trees to keep branches at least 6-10 feet off the ground.
• Maintain spacing between trees and structure.
• Move storage sheds away from home.
• Under deck encloses, to prevent ignition from under deck.
• Separate landscape shrubs and bushes to reduce fire spread.
• Prevent canopy fire jumping between tree tops- by trimming or removing trees.
• Clear a minimum of 10-foot radius around propane tanks sheds, and outbuildings.

Goal: Break up fuel continuity and reduce intensity of fire.

• Thin out dense vegetation and remove ladder fuels - via brush cutting and mastication.
• Create vertical and horizontal spacing between trees and brush to disrupt fire paths. 
• Install access roads for fire personnel and equipment 
• Eliminate dead or fallen trees 
• Install outdoor water faucets or hose bibs to enable quick firefighting access.
• Install water storage tanks