Wildfire Prevention & Preparedness

Protecting Communities from Wildfire

Evidence-based strategies to reduce wildfire risk, protect people and property, and preserve natural ecosystems.

The Challenge

Understanding Wildfire Risk

Wildfires are a growing threat across the United States, driven by climate change, drought, and the expansion of development into wildland areas. The wildland-urban interface (WUI) — where homes and communities meet undeveloped wildland — is particularly vulnerable.

While we cannot eliminate wildfire risk, we can significantly reduce it through defensible space, fire-resistant construction, community preparedness, and responsible land management. The strategies below are based on guidance from NFPA, CAL FIRE, and peer-reviewed fire science research.

Disclaimer: Wildfire prevention recommendations vary by location, vegetation type, and local regulations. Always follow your local fire authority's guidance and consult a qualified professional for site-specific advice. Fire safety recommendations may vary; follow local codes and consult qualified professionals.

Key Strategy

Creating Defensible Space

Defensible space is the buffer you create between your home and the surrounding vegetation. It gives firefighters room to work and reduces the chance of fire reaching your structure.

Zone 1 (0–30 ft)

Immediate Zone

  • Remove all dead plants, grass, and weeds
  • Remove leaves and pine needles from roof and gutters
  • Keep wood piles away from the house
  • Use fire-resistant plants near the structure
  • Clear vegetation from under decks and porches
Zone 2 (30–100 ft)

Intermediate Zone

  • Cut or mow grass to a maximum of 4 inches
  • Create horizontal spacing between shrubs and trees
  • Remove dead branches that hang over the roof
  • Create vertical spacing between low plants and tree branches
  • Remove vegetation adjacent to storage sheds or outbuildings
Zone 3 (100–200 ft)

Extended Zone

  • Reduce the density of trees and shrubs
  • Remove dead plant material
  • Dispose of slash (cut branches) promptly
  • Maintain access roads and driveways for emergency vehicles
Be Ready

Wildfire Preparedness Steps

01

Sign Up for Emergency Alerts

Register for your county's emergency notification system to receive wildfire warnings and evacuation orders.

02

Create an Evacuation Plan

Identify multiple evacuation routes, designate a meeting point, and practice with all household members.

03

Prepare a Go-Bag

Assemble an emergency kit with essentials for 72 hours: medications, documents, water, food, and communication tools.

04

Protect Your Home

Install ember-resistant vents, use fire-resistant roofing materials, and seal gaps in exterior walls.

05

Know Your Risk

Use our AI Fire Analyzer to understand your property's wildfire risk factors and prioritize prevention actions.

Ecosystem Protection

Protecting People and Wildlife

Wildfire prevention is not just about protecting structures — it is about protecting entire ecosystems. Uncontrolled wildfires devastate wildlife habitats, degrade water quality, and release significant carbon emissions.

Our programs incorporate ecological considerations, promoting prevention strategies that reduce fire risk while supporting healthy, fire-adapted landscapes.

Ecological Research Partnerships

Fire-Adapted Landscapes

Promoting native, fire-resistant plants that reduce fuel loads while supporting biodiversity.

Watershed Protection

Preventing erosion and water quality degradation that follows uncontrolled wildfire.

Wildlife Corridors

Maintaining safe movement corridors for wildlife during and after fire events.

Post-Fire Recovery

Supporting community and ecosystem recovery after wildfire events.

Assess Your Wildfire Risk

Use our AI Fire Analyzer to get a general assessment of wildfire risk factors for your property.

Use AI Fire AnalyzerEducation Resources