1. Create Defensible Space Around Your Home
Clear flammable materials and vegetation from around your house to reduce the chance of fire spreading to your structure.
Cal Fire recommends:
Maintain 100 feet of defensible space around your home.
Trim trees so branches are at least 10 feet from other trees and clear leaves and needles from your roof and gutters.
Remove dead vegetation and store firewood at least 30 feet away from the home.
🔧 Helpful gear: Leaf blower, rake, pruning shears, or a battery-powered chainsaw.
2. Harden Your Home Against Fire
Use fire-resistant building materials and seal vulnerable areas where embers could enter.
Tips:
Install ember-resistant vents and dual-pane windows.
Use Class A fire-rated roofing and clear space under decks and patios.
Seal gaps around garage doors and attic vents.
3. Build an Emergency Supply Kit
Prepare a “Go Bag” that can support your family for at least 72 hours if you need to evacuate quickly.
Include:
First aid kit - see our First Aid Kit list
Flashlight + batteries
N95 masks - Halidodo KN95 Face Masks - Buy on Amazon
Bottled water
Non-perishable food
Important documents (copies)
Medications and phone chargers
4. Plan for Evacuation Early
Don’t wait for the flames to get close — evacuate when officials advise or when you feel unsafe.
Cal Fire’s Ready, Set, Go! program advises:
Know multiple exit routes from your neighborhood.
Pre-load your vehicle with emergency supplies during high-risk days.
Keep gas tanks at least half full and park facing out.
5. Stay Informed and Alert
Sign up for local emergency alerts, and keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy in case of power outages.
Resources:
Visit CalFire ReadyForWildfire.org for preparedness tools and updates.
Download emergency alert apps like FEMA, MyShake, or Cal Fire’s Ready for Wildfire app.
Preparing for wildfires isn’t just a rural or mountain issue anymore — fire risk now reaches suburban neighborhoods and urban edges. By creating defensible space, preparing an emergency kit, and having an evacuation plan, you can dramatically improve your family’s safety and resilience.