In the East Bay, wildfires are an ongoing concern. The recent Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in Los Angeles County serve as stark reminders of the devastating impact wildfires can have. The wildfires burning in and around Los Angeles have razed neighborhoods, killed at least 25 people and forced desperate evacuations. The two largest rank among the most deadly and destructive blazes in California history.

 

Preparation and prevention not only save lives but also protect your home. Every household should pack a go bag, create emergency plans, and prepare for possible power outages. It’s also essential to harden your home against wildfire.

 

Wildfires can expose your home to direct flames, radiant heat, and flying embers—the latter capable of traveling up to a mile and igniting new fires. While no home can be made entirely fireproof, these steps can significantly reduce risk:

 

• Check your roof: Use ignition-resistant construction methods and Class A fire-rated materials like asphalt, clay, metal, or slate.

• Clean rain gutters: Remove flammable debris regularly.

• Use fire-resistant materials: Apply these to patio coverings, decks, fences, eaves, soffits, and exterior walls.

• Protect vents: Cover them with 1/8" to 1/4” metal mesh to block embers.

• Secure chimneys: Install 3/8" to 1/2” metal mesh over chimneys and stove pipe outlets.

• Seal openings: Secure dog/cat doors and use weather stripping to cover gaps around garage doors.

• Install dual-pane windows: These reduce the chance of shattering from fire heat.

• Fireproof the area near your home: Ensure the space within 5 feet of your home is fire-resistant and free of flammable materials.

• Create defensible space: Keep flammable items and landscaping away from your home.

• Clean up yard debris: Use non-flammable landscaping and hardscaping materials.

• Prepare hoses: Keep hoses connected and long enough to reach all areas of your home.

• Ensure access for emergency vehicles: Maintain a driveway that accommodates fire engines and other responders.

Preparing together with your neighbors as a community is another excellent way to improve disaster readiness. Inspire neighbors to harden their homes and stock up on fire extinguishers, shovels, and rakes to combat small fires before they spread. Local programs in Oakland and Berkeley offer valuable training opportunities in disaster protocols to enhance community resilience.

 

Since wildfires can occur unpredictably, increasing fire awareness and safety is essential. We’re here to help you stay informed and prepared. Reach out to access resources or share your suggestions for improving safety and readiness.