Each May, National Wildfire Awareness Month is observed as an effort to educate people about the importance of preventing wildfires and protect their homes and communities. As climate change continues to cause more extreme weather patterns, wildfires have become more frequent and devastating, causing loss of life and property damage. In 2022 alone, a total of 66,255 wildfires were recorded. This makes it more important than ever to take action to protect your home from wildfires.

Here are some steps you can take to protect your home from wildfires:

1. Create a buffer around your home: Keep extra space between your home and flammable vegetation or other sources of fuel for wildfires. Clear all flammable materials within 30 feet of your home, including dead vegetation, fallen leaves, and tree limbs.
2. Use fire-resistant building materials: If you’re building a new home or renovating an existing one, consider using fire-resistant materials such as non-combustible roofing materials, fire-resistant siding, and tempered glass windows. These materials can help prevent a wildfire from igniting your home.
3. Keep your gutters and roof clean: Debris in your gutters or on your roof can easily catch fire from embers carried by the wind. Regularly clean your gutters and roof to reduce this risk.
4. Ensure that your home has working smoke detectors, and invest in fire extinguishers: Smoke detectors can alert you to danger, giving you time to evacuate. Fire extinguishers can help put out small fires before they get out of control.
5. Create an evacuation plan: Identify escape routes and make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of an emergency.
6. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest wildfire conditions and warnings in your area!

Read more about wildfire preparedness tips from the National Fire Protection Association.

…