California faces wildfire risk every season, and taking practical steps now can protect homes, health and property values.
Preparedness blends landscape management, home hardening, evacuation planning and awareness of utility actions that affect power and communications. Here’s a clear, actionable guide to reduce risk and increase readiness.
Create defensible space
– Trim brush and remove dead vegetation around structures. Local fire agencies often recommend extending cleared zones outward from the home; check local guidance for distances that apply to your neighborhood.
– Space trees and shrubs to prevent fire from leaping from the ground to the canopy.
Keep tree branches at least several feet from roofs and other trees.
– Store firewood and flammable materials well away from the house and outbuildings.
Harden your home
– Use ember-resistant materials where possible: metal vents with ember guards, non-combustible roofing and tempered glass or multi-pane windows reduce vulnerability to windblown embers.
– Seal gaps around eaves, attics and crawl spaces to keep embers from entering.
– Install rain gutters and keep them clear of leaves.
Replace combustible fascia and trim with fire-resistant alternatives as budgets allow.
Prepare an evacuation plan
– Designate primary and alternate evacuation routes and practice them with all household members and pets.
Know multiple ways out of your area.
– Assemble a grab-and-go kit with copies of important documents, medications, flashlights, chargers, water, N95 masks and basic supplies.
Keep a packed kit in a vehicle if evacuation is likely.
– Create a family communication plan: choose an out-of-area contact to relay information, and know where to find local evacuation center locations.
Stay informed about utilities and alerts
– Utilities may implement planned power shutoffs during extreme fire risk to prevent ignition. Enroll in your utility’s alert system and monitor local fire agency notifications.
– Sign up for local emergency alerts, county reverse-911 systems and community warning systems. Follow verified social media channels from local fire departments for real-time updates.
Protect indoor air quality
– Wildfire smoke can travel far and affect air quality across cities and valleys. Keep windows and doors closed during smoke events.
– Use high-efficiency air filters and consider a HEPA air purifier for bedrooms and living areas.
N95 respirators offer protection when outdoors during smoky conditions.
Know your insurance and recovery steps
– Review homeowners or renters insurance to understand wildfire coverage, deductibles and evacuation expense provisions. Take photos or video of your property periodically as documentation.
– If evacuated, follow official guidance before returning.
Report damage to your insurer and local authorities as recommended.
Engage with your community
– Neighborhood coordination increases resilience. Joint fuel reduction projects, community hardening days and local Fire Safe Councils help reduce overall risk.
– Volunteer for community preparedness programs and encourage local leaders to prioritize defensible space and emergency planning.
Small investments can yield big returns when it comes to wildfire resilience. Prioritizing defensible space, home hardening, clear evacuation plans and staying informed about utility actions will significantly improve safety and recovery outcomes for households and neighborhoods throughout California.