Wildfire Preparedness Basics: Protecting Your Home Before Flames Spread

Wildfires move faster than people expect. Embers can travel miles ahead of the flames, landing on roofs, patios, and dry landscaping. This guide covers defensible space, home-hardening, evacuation triggers, and smoke protection so your home—and your family—have a fighting chance.

For situations where smoke becomes the main hazard, review Shelter-in-Place Basics.

1. Build Defensible Space

Your first line of defense is the area around your home. Break it into zones:

• 0–5 feet: No flammables—no mulch, no dry plants, no firewood stacks
• 5–30 feet: Trim trees, remove dead brush, keep grass short
• 30–100 feet: Reduce density of vegetation and remove ladder fuels

The closer a fire gets, the more embers matter—this zone stops them from finding fuel.

2. Harden the Home Against Embers

Most homes ignite from embers, not direct flame. Strengthen weak points:

• Install ember-resistant vents
• Keep gutters clean
• Replace missing roof shingles
• Use metal screens over eaves and vents
• Seal gaps where debris collects

Embers are small but destructive—blocking their entry is critical.

3. Prepare an Early Evacuation Plan

Wildfires grow fast. Evacuation works only if you leave early. Your plan should include:

• Two or more exit routes
• A preset “go now” trigger (fire within a certain distance, red flag warnings, etc.)
• A loaded go-bag near the door
• Full fuel tank during fire season

For a full evacuation packing guide, see Short-Term Evacuation Prep.

4. Protect Against Smoke

Smoke is often more dangerous than flames—especially for kids, older adults, and anyone with breathing issues. Prep:

• N95 masks
• Air purifier with HEPA filter
• Plastic sheeting to seal a clean-air room
• Extra water (smoke dehydrates fast)

Smoke conditions often call for indoor shelter; review Stay-Bag Checklist.

5. Home Prep When Fire Is Approaching

If you have time before evacuating:

• Shut all windows and doors
• Shut off gas if advised
• Move flammables away from the house
• Turn on outside lights to help firefighters see your address
• Back the car into the driveway for fast departure

6. During the Fire

If you haven’t evacuated yet and conditions deteriorate:

• Leave immediately—roads close fast
• Avoid driving through heavy smoke (visibility drops to zero)
• Use headlights even during daylight

7. After the Fire

Once officials say it’s safe to return:

• Watch for hotspots and ash pits
• Check for structural damage before entering
• Avoid stirring ash—it may contain toxic debris
• Document damage for insurance immediately

For insurance steps after a loss, see What to Do After a House Fire.

8. The Bottom Line

Wildfire prep is about staying ahead of the flames. Build defensible space, harden your home, prepare early evacuation triggers, and protect against smoke. When conditions change, move quickly—fires don’t wait.