Protect Your Home from Wildfire

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Guide
Authors
Christopher Jones
Publication Date: September 2020 | View PDF

Checklist

ember aware checklist

  1. WOOD ROOF - Replace wood roofs with fire-resistant types such as composition, metal and tile.
  2. ROOF OPENINGS - Plug openings at locations between the roof covering and roof deck using a noncombustible material.
  3. ROOF DEBRIS - Routinely remove leaf and pine needle debris from the roof.
  4. SKYLIGHTS - Replace plastic skylights with double-pane tempered glass on gabled or sloped roofs.
  5. SPARK ARRESTER - Install an approved spark arrester on chimneys.
  6. WINDOWS - Use multi-pane, tempered glass windows. Close windows if wildfire is threatening.
  7. VENTS -  Cover all exterior vents with 1/8-inch corrosion resistant wire mesh or install new vents designed to resist ember entry. Use a louvered vent for the dryer.
  8. RAIN GUTTERS - Use noncombustible rain gutter covers. Inspect and keep gutters free of debris.
  9. SIDING - Fill gaps in siding and trim with caulk. Assure at least a six-inch separation between the ground and the start of the siding.
  10. WOODPILES - Move woodpiles at least 30 feet from the house.
  11. PATIO FURNITURE - Put combustible patio furniture inside or move 30 feet from the house if wildfire is threatening.
  12. DECK BOARDS - Replace deck boards <1” thick, or in poor condition, with thicker higher density decking (i.e., hardwood or plastic composite). Properly install metal flashing between the deck and house.
  13. DECK DEBRIS - Remover leaf and pine needle debris on top of deck and between deck board gaps.
  14. PORCH & DECK ACCESSORIES - If wildfire is threatening, remove door mats and combustible materials from the porch and deck. Place BBQ propane tanks indoors.
  15. UNDER THE DECK - Remove leaf and pine needle debris and other combustible materials from under decks. Enclose open sided decks with 1/8-inch corrosion resistant wire mesh.
  16. FLOWERBOXES - Remove plants and combustible materials (or flowerboxes as practical) from beneath windows if wildfire is threatening.
  17. EAVES - Enclose open eaves with a noncombustible material.
  18. FLOWERBEDS - Should be at least five feet from the house. Use noncombustible mulch like gravel. Routinely remove dead and dry plant material. Choose plants and flowers that are deciduous, herbaceous, low resin or non-resinous, succulent and/or low growing.