What’s Between a Close Call and a Catastrophe? Your Home Ignition Zone.
We are beginning a four-part look at the Home Ignition Zone, or HIZ - the home itself and the area surrounding it.
A home’s wildfire risk is influenced by both the materials and condition of the structure and the fuels around it. Homes may ignite from direct flames, radiant heat or airborne embers. Embers are the most common source of home ignition and can travel more than a mile ahead of a wildfire.
The Home Ignition Zone is divided into three areas:
Zone 1: 0–5 feet from the home
Zone 2: 5–30 feet from the home
Zone 3: 30–100 feet from the home
The best place to begin is with the house and then work outward through each zone.
Home Ignition Zone Checklist
Take a few minutes to look around your home and identify what needs attention:
Wildfire preparation does not have to happen all at once. Start with one manageable project and continue working outward from your home. Because vegetation grows and debris returns, the Home Ignition Zone requires regular maintenance - not a one-time cleanup.
Small actions can make a meaningful difference.
A home’s wildfire risk is influenced by both the materials and condition of the structure and the fuels around it. Homes may ignite from direct flames, radiant heat or airborne embers. Embers are the most common source of home ignition and can travel more than a mile ahead of a wildfire.
The Home Ignition Zone is divided into three areas:
Zone 1: 0–5 feet from the home
Zone 2: 5–30 feet from the home
Zone 3: 30–100 feet from the home
The best place to begin is with the house and then work outward through each zone.
Home Ignition Zone Checklist
Take a few minutes to look around your home and identify what needs attention:
- Clear pine needles, leaves and debris from roofs, decks and gutters.
- Remove flammable materials from within 5 feet of the home and outbuildings.
- Screen vents and openings with 1/8-inch metal mesh to help reduce ember entry.
- Remove items stored under decks and porches.
- Trim branches that overhang the roof or are within 10 feet of the chimney.
- Keep firewood at least 30 feet from the home.
- Remove ladder fuels and maintain appropriate spacing between trees and shrubs.
- Keep your address visible and your driveway accessible to emergency responders.
Wildfire preparation does not have to happen all at once. Start with one manageable project and continue working outward from your home. Because vegetation grows and debris returns, the Home Ignition Zone requires regular maintenance - not a one-time cleanup.
Small actions can make a meaningful difference.
