Wildfires can devastate communities—destroying thousands of homes each year. Nevertheless, there are steps you can take to help protect your home from wildfires.
- Keep it clean. Routinely clean your roof, gutters and surrounding property of any fallen branches, leaves or dead vegetation, as these materials can fuel a wildfire. Regularly mow your lawn and prune trees.
- Be smart when storing firewood and fuel. Safely store firewood and other fuel sources at least 50 feet away from your home.
- Ensure safe landscaping. Plant drought- and wind-resistant, native and slow-growing vegetation on your property. Keep plants safely spaced from both your home and one another to help stop the easy spread of wildfire flames.
- Have an emergency water supply. Fire hydrants, storage tanks, pools and ponds are all acceptable emergency water supply sources. Make sure they are clearly labeled to help first responders locate and use them during a wildfire.
- Close windows and vents. If you must evacuate your home due to a wildfire, close all windows and vents before you leave to help deter flames and embers from traveling indoors.
- Choose home materials wisely. Be sure to select fire-resistant roofing material such as slate, metal or clay. Choose a safe material for your home’s siding as well, such as fiber cement. Repair and replace these materials when necessary.
If you’re ready to review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you’ll be adequately covered in the event of a wildfire, contact us today. Conducting a home inventory of your personal belongings and their value can help check whether any adjustments to your coverage should be made.