Summer Fire Risk Checklist

Hot weather, dry vegetation, and outdoor cooking all push fire risk way up. Wildfires also spread faster during summer, and embers can travel farther than most people expect. Use this checklist to cut down your risk as much as possible.

For broader wildfire preparation, see Wildfire Preparedness Basics.

1. Yard and Defensible Space

• [ ] Remove dry grass, dead plants, and leaves within 5 feet of the house
• [ ] Keep grass cut short
• [ ] Trim tree branches at least 6 feet off the ground
• [ ] Prune branches hanging over the roof
• [ ] Clear debris from under decks and porches
• [ ] Store firewood at least 30 feet from structures

2. Roof, Gutters, and Vents

• [ ] Clean leaves and debris from gutters
• [ ] Check roof for missing shingles or weak spots
• [ ] Install or confirm ember-resistant vents
• [ ] Seal gaps where embers could collect
• [ ] Remove pine needles and debris from the roof

3. Grill and Outdoor Cooking Safety

• [ ] Keep grills at least 10 feet away from structures
• [ ] Clean grease trays before every use
• [ ] Check gas hoses for leaks (soap + water test)
• [ ] Never leave grills unattended
• [ ] Keep a charged fire extinguisher nearby

4. Outdoor Equipment and Storage

• [ ] Store gasoline and propane in ventilated outdoor sheds
• [ ] Don’t store fuel near ignition sources
• [ ] Check yard tools for frayed cords or sparks
• [ ] Avoid running metal-blade trimmers during red flag conditions

5. Home Exterior Safety

• [ ] Make sure address numbers are visible for firefighters
• [ ] Confirm hose lines can reach all around the home
• [ ] Keep propane tanks away from siding and windows
• [ ] Check outdoor outlets for weatherproof covers
• [ ] Inspect decks for dry rot or loose boards that could ignite

6. Vehicle and Garage Fire Risks

• [ ] Don’t park vehicles on dry brush
• [ ] Check for fluid leaks that could ignite
• [ ] Keep garage clutter away from water heaters
• [ ] Store oily rags in metal containers

7. Air Conditioning and Ventilation

• [ ] Clear vegetation around the AC condenser
• [ ] Clean AC filters to prevent overheating
• [ ] Confirm attic fans and vents work properly

8. Kids, Pets, and Visitors

• [ ] Keep lighters and matches out of kids’ reach
• [ ] Don’t let kids play near grills or propane tanks
• [ ] Keep pets away from cooking and fuel areas

9. Emergency Readiness

• [ ] Update emergency contacts
• [ ] Check go-bags for missing essentials
• [ ] Review evacuation routes
• [ ] Charge power banks and radios

Summer fires move fast. Cutting down obvious hazards now gives your home a fighting chance if flames or embers show up in your area.