The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reports that a recent live fire demonstration held in San Diego during Wildfire Preparedness Week showcased the difference wildfire mitigation can make when it comes to protecting homes. Organized by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety in collaboration with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Cal Fire San Diego Unit, the event provided a closeup look at how research-driven strategies can reduce the risk of wildfire damage.
The side-by-side burn demonstration featured two structures — one built with mitigation measures in place and one without — to visually emphasize how small, proactive steps can significantly influence a home’s survival during a wildfire, said Cal Fire. Central to the demonstration was Zone 0 — a 5-foot perimeter around the home kept clear of flammable materials to prevent ignition from wind-driven embers.
“The science is clear. Creating a noncombustible buffer around your house is the most effective defense we have so when embers land in that space, there’s nothing to ignite,” said IBHS CEO Roy Wright. “We’re not asking people to choose between safety and curb appeal — there are smart, attractive ways to have both.”
With peak wildfire season just around the corner, fire officials urge residents to begin mitigation now. “This live demonstration shows that homes lacking wildfire mitigation are highly susceptible during a wildfire,” said State Fire Marshal Chief Daniel Berlant. “Fight to be the house still standing after a wildfire occurs, maintain defensible space and harden your home.”
Tools, tips and resources on how to prepare a home and property against wildfire threats are available at readyforwildfire.org. More information about the Wildfire Prepared Home program and how to participate is available at wildfireprepared.org.