What is defensible space and how much do I need?

Defensible space is the area around your home where vegetation and other combustible materials have been cleared or reduced. Zone 1 extends 0 to 30 feet from the structure and should be kept lean and clean. Zone 2 extends 30 to 100 feet and should have reduced fuel density with spaced trees and no ladder fuels connecting ground cover to tree canopy.

When should I evacuate during a wildfire?

Leave as soon as authorities issue an evacuation warning for your area. Do not wait for a mandatory evacuation order. Wildfires can change direction and speed in minutes. Ready.gov recommends having a go-bag packed and a route planned before fire season begins.

What kind of mask protects against wildfire smoke?

An N95 respirator mask rated by NIOSH provides effective protection against fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke. Cloth masks, surgical masks, and bandanas do not filter the fine particles that cause the most health damage. The CDC recommends N95 masks for wildfire smoke exposure.

How do I protect my home from wildfire embers?

Embers can travel more than a mile ahead of a wildfire and are the leading cause of home ignition during wildfires. Screen all vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh, clear gutters, remove debris from under decks and porches, and keep roofing in good repair. The NFPA Firewise program provides detailed guidance.

Is it safe to return home after a wildfire?

Do not return until fire officials issue an all-clear for your area. Ash and debris may contain hazardous materials. Wear an N95 mask, long sleeves, and gloves during cleanup. Avoid disturbing ash more than necessary, as it may contain toxic residue. Photograph all damage before cleaning for insurance documentation.

Wildfire Preparedness Checklist — Before, During & After a Wildfire

Phase 1

Year-round preparation. Defensible space and home hardening.

Most homes lost to wildfire are ignited by embers, not direct flame contact. Defensible space and home hardening are your strongest protection.

Zone 1: 0 to 30 Feet

Remove all dead vegetation, leaves, and pine needles within 5 feet of the house
Clear debris from under decks, porches, and elevated structures
Move firewood stacks, propane tanks, and flammable materials at least 30 feet from the house
Use hardscape (gravel, stone) rather than mulch directly against the foundation

Zone 2: 30 to 100 Feet

Space tree canopies at least 10 feet apart to prevent crown fire spread
Remove ladder fuels (brush and low branches that connect ground fire to canopy)
Prune tree branches to at least 6 feet above ground level
Keep grass mowed to 4 inches or less throughout fire season

Home Hardening

Screen all vents (attic, eave, foundation) with 1/8-inch metal mesh to block embers
Clean gutters and roof of all leaves, needles, and debris
Repair or replace damaged roofing, siding, and window screens
Install ember-resistant vents if your home is in a Wildland-Urban Interface area

Documents and Insurance

Store copies of IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a fireproof bag or safe
Create a video walkthrough of your home and belongings for insurance documentation
Confirm your homeowner's policy covers wildfire and review your dwelling coverage limit
Keep cash in small bills with your evacuation bag

Phase 2

When a wildfire threatens. Leave early. Leave alive.

Wildfires move fast and change direction without warning. If authorities say go, go. The window to leave safely closes quickly.

Evacuation

Leave when you receive an evacuation warning — do not wait for a mandatory order
Identify two evacuation routes on a paper map — do not rely on GPS during evacuations
Load pets, medications, documents, and your 72-hour bag first
Tell someone outside the area where you are going and your expected route

If Time Allows Before Leaving

Close all windows, doors, and fireplace dampers
Move flammable furniture away from windows to the center of rooms
Connect garden hoses and fill any available pools, hot tubs, or large containers
Leave exterior lights on to help firefighters find your home in smoke

Phase 3

Air quality and smoke. What you breathe matters.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that penetrates deep into your lungs. Smoke exposure is a health risk even hundreds of miles from the fire.

Wear a NIOSH-rated N95 respirator outdoors when smoke is visible — cloth masks do not filter PM2.5
Close all windows and exterior doors — set your HVAC to recirculate (not fresh air)
Run a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter in the room where you spend the most time
Monitor AQI at airnow.gov — limit outdoor activity when AQI exceeds 150
Do not rely on running your car for filtered air — vehicle cabin filters vary widely
People with asthma, COPD, heart conditions, or those who are pregnant should evacuate smoke zones early

Phase 4

After the fire. Return carefully.

Even after the fire is controlled, the landscape is dangerous. Ash, weakened trees, unstable ground, and contaminated water create real hazards.

Immediate Safety

Wait for officials to confirm it is safe to return — hidden hot spots can reignite
Wear an N95 mask, long sleeves, long pants, and gloves during cleanup
Do not disturb ash more than necessary — wet it gently before moving it
Do not use tap water until your water utility confirms it is safe — fire can damage water systems

Recovery and Documentation

Photograph all damage before touching or cleaning anything for your insurance claim
Contact your insurance company to open a claim as soon as possible
Watch for flash flooding in burn scar areas — fire strips ground cover that absorbs rain
Register with FEMA for disaster assistance if your area receives a federal declaration

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Wildfire Preparedness Checklist. Protect your home. Protect your lungs.