Fire season is year-round in California, but the time we have the most Santa Ana wind events is coming. Here are some tips to prepare your home.
Home hardening
The most disastrous fires in terms of loss of human lives and property are tied to extreme wind events. Here are some steps to help your home become more secure from harmful embers that can travel a mile ahead of a wildfire.
1) Roof
Ember-resistant material. Gaps are filled with ignition-resistant material. No loose roof flashing
2) Eaves
Eaves are maintained with all gaps filled with caulking and painted over.
3) Vents
⅛-inch metal mesh screen or ember-proof vents.
4) Chimney
½-inch spark arrestor screen. Clear tree branches and/or vegetation at least 10 feet away from opening.
5) Gutters
Install gutter guards. Remove combustible debris on a regular basis.
6) Exterior siding
Exterior siding is maintained with all gaps filled with caulking and painted over.
7) Doors
Weather-stripping around door frames and doors adjusted for a “tight fit” within the frame.
8) Windows
Multi-pane windows, with at least one pane being tempered, and metal framing.
9) Fence
Non-combustible or ignition-resistant material. Maintain fencing by keeping vegetation clear.
10) Patio covers
Ignition-resistant material. Fill all gaps and crevices. Install metal flashing between the patio and outside wall.
11) Balconies and decks
Ignition-resistant material. Fill all gaps between the deck and outside wall with caulking or metal flashing. Remove or replace combustible items stored above and below.
12) Immediate zone
Changes made to the immediate zone can make a big impact in reducing structure loss during a wildfire.
No woody vegetation located within 5 feet of the home. No combustible items located within 5 feet of the home (trash bins, patio furniture, storage, mulch, etc.)
Use hardscape like gravel, pavers, concrete and other noncombustible material. No combustible bark or mulch.
Remove all dead and dying weeds, grass, plants, shrubs, trees, branches and…
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