Prepare Your Home

Wildfire: Defensible Space

Embers cause 90% of home destruction during wildfires. Creating defensible space around your home is the single most effective thing you can do.

Zone 0 (0-5 feet from home)

• Use non-combustible materials for decking, fencing, and patio covers within 5 feet
• Remove all dead vegetation, leaves, and debris
• Move firewood and combustible materials away from the house
• Clean gutters and roof of leaves and pine needles
• Screen vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh

Home Hardening

• Install Class A fire-rated roofing material
• Box in eaves with non-combustible materials
• Install dual-pane or tempered glass windows
• Use non-combustible siding or stucco
• Ensure fire extinguishers are in the kitchen, garage, and near fireplaces
• Install and maintain smoke detectors on every floor and in every bedroom
• Install carbon monoxide detectors

Earthquake Preparation

• Secure water heater with earthquake straps
• Bolt bookcases and tall furniture to walls
• Install latches on cabinets to prevent contents from spilling
• Know how to shut off gas at the meter (keep a wrench nearby)
• Store heavy items on lower shelves
• Keep shoes and a flashlight under every bed
• Identify safe spots in each room (under sturdy tables, against interior walls)

Storm and Flood Preparation

• Clear storm drains and gutters before rainy season
• Know your flood zone and have sandbags available if needed
• Trim trees near power lines and structures
• Have battery-powered or hand-crank radio for power outages
• Store at least 2 weeks of food and water
• Have flashlights, batteries, and portable phone chargers
• Consider a generator for extended power outages