Preparing your Northwestern home for the threat of wildfires is essential. With powerful winds, searing heat, and dry conditions, a wildfire’s potential for destruction cannot be understated.
Taking a few simple steps now to protect your home can help ensure you, your family, and your neighbors are safe and that your home holds up against the harsh conditions of a wildfire.
From clearing away dangerous debris to giving your roof and exterior the right protection, here’s what homeowners can do to prepare their home from the risk of wildfire.
1. Clear Away Combustible Debris
To reduce the risk of wildfires devastating your home, it is important to remove anything that can burn. This includes dried leaves, woodpiles, and low-hanging branches.
The further you clear combustible debris from your property, the safer your home will be from any oncoming wildfire. If possible, create a firebreak between your home and the surrounding dry vegetation. This will create a buffer zone and further protect your property.
2. Prepare Your Roof
Installing fire-resistant materials on your roof will help protect your home from the heat of a wildfire. For the best protection, use non-combustible roofing material such as slate, tile, cement, and metal.
You may also opt for a fire-resistant coating, such as emulsified asphalt or water-resistant paint, to help protect the roof from embers and flames.
No matter what type of roofing material you choose, make sure that it is well-maintained. Keep the roof and its surrounding area free of debris and check for rotting or cracked materials.
3. Protect Your Exterior Walls
Installing a fire-resistant material or mesh on your home’s exterior walls can help keep embers away. If your home is made of wood, a fire-resistant coating or siding can also be helpful. Vinyl siding also offers a layer of protection for your home.
For even more protection, check for any openings around the exterior walls, such as small cracks or doors. Make sure that they are sealed to protect against embers entering the home.
Other Ways Your Home Can Be Fire Ready
- Install fire-resistant shutters. For added protection, use fire-rated shutters that are designed to stop radiant heat from entering your home.
- Check your irrigation system. Make sure that the sprinkler system is in good working condition and keep vegetation away from the system.
- Keep a garden hose handy. Have a working garden hose with enough length to reach around your home.
- Have an evacuation plan. Have a plan in place ahead of time should you need to evacuate your home in case of an emergency.
Preparing Your Home for a Wildfire
By following the steps above, you can ensure that your home is ready for the threat of a wildfire. With the right preparations, you can protect your home and give yourself peace of mind knowing you have done everything in your power to keep it safe.