Wildfire Prepared Home Checklist
Wildfire prep is mostly maintenance: remove fuel from the places embers land, close openings where embers enter, and keep the area nearest the house clean. This checklist follows the home-hardening priorities used by wildfire safety programs, including the 0-5 foot zone closest to the structure, roof and gutter debris, vents, decks, landscaping, and combustible storage.
Exterior
6 tasksSafety
2 tasksLawn & Landscaping
1 taskGeneral
1 taskSources
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest-priority wildfire prep task?
Start with the first 0-5 feet around the home: remove dry vegetation, mulch, stored items, and combustible furniture from the area touching the structure. Then clean roofs, gutters, vents, decks, and nearby landscaping.
What does IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home focus on?
The IBHS program focuses on science-based actions that reduce ember ignition and structure-to-structure fire spread, including roof and gutter maintenance, the immediate zone around the home, vents, decks, outbuildings, and vegetation management.
Do gutter guards solve wildfire risk?
Gutter guards help only if they are noncombustible and still kept clean. Fine debris can accumulate on top of guards, so inspect and clean them regularly, especially before high-risk weather.
How often should I update wildfire prep?
Do a full exterior pass before wildfire season, then quick checks after wind, leaf drop, landscaping work, or any project that adds combustible material near the home.