Consumer Tips: Tame Wildfire with a Defensible Space

Nearly 10 million acres were burned by wildfires in the U.S. in 2017, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. In California alone, wildfires destroyed more than 10,000 structures and killed at least 45 people.

Creating a defensible space – a buffer between your property and the surrounding land – can slow or even stop the spread of wildfire and help minimize destruction to your home.

As we transition from winter to spring, it’s a good idea to clear excess vegetation, which can be highly combustible once it dries. Creating a defensible space not only helps protect your property, but also makes it easier for firefighters to defend your home.

Consider the following to protect your home from wildfire.

Zone One – extends 30 feet out from buildings, structures and decks

• Clear yard, roof and gutters of pine needles, leaves and other flammable materials regularly.
• Trim tree limbs so they are at least 10 feet away from roofs, decks, and other trees, and at least six feet from the ground.
• Remove all dead trees, limbs and vegetation.
• Remove flammable plants near windows.
• Keep combustibles, such as firewood piles and patio furniture, away from structures.
• Use fire-resistant plants around your home to potentially slow the spread of fire.
• Store gasoline and propane tanks in approved containers only, away from buildings.
• Soak ashes and charcoal briquettes in water before disposing of them.
• Mark your address clearly on your home and at all roadway entrances to make it easier for emergency responders to find your home.
• Have basic tools such as ladders, rakes, buckets and hoses available in good condition for fire crews.

Zone 2 – extends 100 feet out from buildings, structures and decks

• Cut grass in this area to a maximum height of four inches.
• Ensure you have adequate horizontal and vertical spacing between shrubs and trees. Visit Cal Fire to learn more.
• Remove fallen leaves, needles, twigs, bark, cones and small branches.
• Check with your local fire department for any additional defensible space or weed abatement ordinances.

Other steps you can take

Ideally, the roof and exterior structure of your home should be made of non-combustible or fire-resistant materials such as tile, slate, sheet iron, aluminum, brick or stone. If your roof or siding is made of wood shingle or cedar shake, treat it with fire-resistant chemicals, or consider upgrading to fire-resistant materials.

Roads and driveways should ideally be at least 16 feet wide to provide easy access to fire trucks and other large vehicles.

Call your AAA insurance agent or insurance customer service, or visit your local branch for more information about home insurance.