For many, wildfires are synonymous with destruction. They can create unmeasurable havoc and cost the lives of both humans and wildlife. On the other hand, controlled forest fires present several benefits to the environment, such as clearing grasses and bushes to prevent future fires, removing forest debris, eliminating unwanted insects and diseases, and accessibility to more nutrients due to the exposed sunlight.

In the United States, from 2011 until 2020, more than 60,000 wildfires were recorded annually, and an average of 7.5 million acres was destroyed yearly. As a homeowner, wildfires can only mean unnecessary stress and financial damages. Here are some necessary measures that you can take to protect your home from this undesirable catastrophe.

Invest in high-quality non-flammable housing materials

It might be easier to fire-proof your house if you are in the construction stage, since you can build it entirely with fire-resistant materials. For existing homeowners, an alternative would be to install materials that could prevent your house from burning. Consider replacing your roof with non-combustible material such as tile, slate, concrete, copper, metal, and clay. Reroofing could be expensive, but a quality roof will prove to be a worthy investment over time. Embers from a nearby wildfire can creep inside your house through your roof, walls, or windows, so ensure that all exterior openings are adequately covered.

Replace your windows with fire-resistant glass such as tempered or double-plane, as they can effectively withstand high-temperatures. You can also install smoke alarms and high-performance exterior sprinklers. If possible, cover your outside walls with durable materials such as bricks, gypsums, and concretes.

Keep your house clean at all costs

A clean house has a higher chance of reducing the damage caused by wildfires or even regular house fires. Make sure to regularly clean your gutters to avoid the build-up of dried leaves and if you have a wood deck, remove dried plants or vegetation. Secure the surroundings of your house and keep fire-hazards such as firewood piles, grills, propane tanks, and even organic fertilizers at least 30 feet away from your home. Remove low-hanging tree branches, and try not to overcrowd your plants when gardening.

Collaborate with your neighbors and consider alternatives

If you live in a heavily-populated community, there is a higher chance that wildfires will spread faster, so everyone in your neighborhood must be on the same page when it comes to fire prevention. Your community will be safer if everyone is properly educated, and keep in mind that fire safety is a collective effort. Discuss with your neighbors about possible programs that your community can participate in or precautions that you can take within your area. Remember that in any scenario, having a proactive approach is almost always better than a reactive one.

It is also vital that your house is insured. Ensure that your fire insurance covers wildfires, and do not hesitate to get assistance from a public adjuster such as TSO Adjustment Service to help you with your claim.

It is vital for homeowners, especially those living in fire-hazard zones, to safeguard their homes from wildfires. By doing so, you are giving your loved ones a higher fighting chance of surviving this unfortunate event.