One step at a time to improve defenses against wildfire

There are two types of wildfire in San Diego – small wildfires occur during normal weather and usually are rapidly extinguished by the firefighters using fire engines and helicopters. On the other hand, during a Santa Ana event, resources are strained and firefighters cannot be present in every neighborhood. Houses that are "pre-defended" are more likely to survive. The following is a series on steps to take to pre-defend your home. This is important even if you don't live near an open space area! Many houses that burn down in Santa Ana fires are not adjacent to open space.
 
Protecting a building from wildfire takes a two-pronged approach:

Remove flammable materials from around the building
Construct the building of fire resistant material

Step 1. Screen attic and crawlspace vents. Strong winds during Santa Ana driven wildfires will draw burning embers into vents, possibly setting the interior of the house on fire. New building codes for houses in high Fire Hazard Severity zones call for ¼ inch screening ( http://www.fire.ca.gov/wildland_codes.php ), but screening is useful for every house in San Diego.

Even better than screens, the Homeowner's Wildfire Mitigation Guide (HWMG) recommends "preparing vent covers that can be temporarily installed when a wildfire approaches your home. Vent covers can be manufactured from plywood or other solid substance that would provide short-term protection from embers and flame." (groups.ucan.org/HWMG/Vents )

Affixing aluminum insect screen to vents by staple or caulk is fairly easy, although the HWMG points out that these smaller screens need attention to be kept free of debris. Don't forget the garage!

Check back soon for Step 2 in Neighborhood Fire Safety.