Home Hardening

Newport Beach Fire Department: Home Hardening for Wildfire Safety Why Home Hardening Matters Wildfires are an increasing threat to communities in California, including Newport Beach. Home hardening involves making specific changes to your home to increase its resistance to embers, radiant heat, and direct flame exposure during a wildfire. By implementing home hardening measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and improve the safety of your family and neighborhood.

• Increased Protection: Homes with fire-resistant features are less likely to ignite during a wildfire.

• Community Safety: A hardened home reduces the spread of fire to neighboring properties.

• Cost Savings: Lower risk of damage can result in reduced insurance premiums and repair costs.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is better prepared provides a sense of security.

Key Areas To Harden Your Home

Wildfire embers can travel up to a mile, making every detail of your home’s exterior critical. Focus on these areas:

1. Roof:

   • Use fire-resistant materials like metal, tile, or Class A shingles.

   • Clear debris regularly to prevent ignition.

2. Vents:

   • Install ember-resistant vents with fine mesh screens (1/8 inch or smaller).

   • Close openings that could allow embers to enter.

3. Eaves and Soffits:

   • Enclose eaves and soffits with fire-resistant materials.

4. Windows and Doors:

   • Use dual-pane windows with tempered glass.

   • Install weather stripping to eliminate gaps.

5. Exterior Walls:

   • Choose non-combustible siding materials like stucco, fiber cement, or metal.

6. Decks and Fences:

   • Build with fire-resistant materials and maintain a clear zone underneath.

   • Avoid attaching combustible fences directly to your home.

7. Landscaping:

   • Maintain a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your home.

   • Remove dead vegetation and choose fire-resistant plants.

Why Home Hardening Matters

Wildfires are an increasing threat to communities in California, including Newport Beach. Home hardening involves making specific changes to your home to increase its resistance to embers, radiant heat, and direct flame exposure during a wildfire. By implementing home hardening measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of property damage and improve the safety of your family and neighborhood.

Supporting Evidence and Statistics

• Fire Loss Reduction: According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), homes with fire-resistant roofs are up to 60% less likely to be destroyed in a wildfire.

• Community Impact: Data from CAL FIRE shows that neighborhoods with a high percentage of hardened homes experience significantly lower rates of property loss.

• Economic Benefits: FEMA estimates that every dollar spent on mitigation saves $6 in future disaster costs.

Resource and Assistance

• Newport Beach Fire Department: Contact us for a home assessment, or guidance on hardening your property  NBFD Wildland Inspection Request Form.

• CAL FIRE Ready for Wildfire: www.readyforwildfire.org – Comprehensive tips and resources.

• Local Hardware Stores: Many offer fire-resistant materials and advice for homeowners.

By taking proactive steps to harden your home, you’re not only protecting your property but also contributing to a safer and more resilient Newport Beach. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact the Newport Beach Fire Department at 949-644-3106 or email nbfdwildland@nbfd.net.