Wildfire

Wildfire Preparedness: How to Protect Your Home and Family

Wildfires are no longer just a seasonal concern. Across North America, wildfires now occur year-round and are growing in size and intensity. With terms like “mega fires” becoming more common, the need for awareness and preparedness has never been greater. Whether you live in a wildfire-prone area or are just passing through, knowing how to respond can make the difference between safety and disaster.

Expert Insights on Wildfire Response

On a recent episode of our podcast, we spoke with wildfire experts who shared their firsthand experiences and insights:

• Ben Strahan – A seasoned Hotshot Superintendent wild land firefighter with extensive experience battling large-scale fires.
• Evan Stewart – A municipal fire Assistant Deputy Chief specializing in the wildland-urban interface, working to protect communities from encroaching wildfires.
• Rob Redekopp – An independent adjuster and wildfire investigator who deals with the aftermath of fires, helping homeowners navigate insurance claims and rebuilding efforts.

Key Takeaways from the Discussion

• Wildfires are no longer seasonal – they now occur year-round in many areas.
• Fires are getting larger and more destructive – requiring new strategies for firefighting and community protection.
• Public awareness remains a challenge – many people only take wildfire threats seriously when the smoke is already in their backyard.
• Evacuation reluctance complicates response efforts – some residents refuse to leave, putting themselves and first responders at greater risk.
• Insurance is often an overlooked aspect of preparedness – and many homeowners don’t realize they are underinsured until disaster strikes.

How to Prepare Before Fire Season

Fireproofing Your Home & Property

• Create Defensible Space: Maintain at least 30 meters (100 feet) of clearance around your home by removing dry vegetation and flammable brush.
• Use Fire-Resistant Materials: Install non-combustible roofing, siding, and decking materials to reduce fire risk.
• Seal Openings: Cover vents, eaves, and soffits with metal mesh to prevent embers from entering your home.
• Keep Combustibles Away: Store firewood and propane tanks at least 10 meters (30 feet) away from your house.
• Fence Considerations: Disconnect wooden fences from your home or install a metal gate to break potential fire pathways.

Emergency Planning & Supplies

• Identify Evacuation Routes: Have at least two escape routes in case one is blocked.
• Prepare a 72-Hour Emergency Kit with:
  – Non-perishable food & water
  – Flashlights, batteries, and a portable charger
  – Important documents (insurance, ID, deeds) in a fireproof case
  – N95 masks for smoke protection
  – Prescription medications & first-aid kit
• Review Insurance Coverage: Ensure you have adequate coverage for rebuilding, temporary housing, and wildfire-related damages.

What to Do When a Wildfire Approaches

Stay Informed & Act Quickly

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor fire updates.
• Follow evacuation order – leave early to avoid last-minute chaos.

Preparing Your Home Before Evacuating

• If time allows:
  – Close all windows & doors to prevent embers from entering.
  – Turn off gas and propane lines to reduce explosion risks.
  – Move flammable furniture away from windows.
  – Turn on all lights to increase visibility for emergency crews.
  – Park your car facing outward for a quick getaway.

Evacuating Safely

• Leave as soon as possible – waiting too long can put you in gridlock.
• Take pets and livestock with you or ensure they have an escape route.
• Drive carefully – smoke can severely reduce visibility.
• Follow designated evacuation routes – do not take shortcuts that may be blocked.

After the Fire: Returning & Recovery

Assessing Your Home

• Wait for official clearance before returning home.
• Check for structural damage to ensure your home is safe to enter.
• Be cautious of embers – fires can smoulder for days.
• Douse hot spots with water to prevent re-ignition.

The Role of Insurance and Rebuilding Challenges

• Many homeowners underestimate their insurance needs, leaving them with insufficient coverage to rebuild after a disaster.
• Post-fire rebuilding is a logistical challenge, especially in remote areas where materials and labor are scarce.
• Insurance companies are raising premiums due to the rising frequency and severity of wildfires, making it even more crucial to review and update policies.
• Recovery can take years – beyond structural rebuilding, communities need time and resources to fully restore essential infrastructure and services.

Insurance & Rebuilding

• Contact your insurance provider immediately to begin the claims process.
• Document all damage with photos and videos before starting cleanup.
• Follow fire-resistant building codes when rebuilding your home.
• Consider fire-resistant landscaping to reduce future risk.

Education and Policy Considerations

• Public education is critical – many people do not understand wildfire risks until they experience them firsthand.
• Programs like Fire Smart (Canada) and Firewise (U.S.) help homeowners learn how to mitigate risks and protect their properties.
• There is growing discussion around national or provincial wildfire reservist programs, where civilians could receive training to assist during fire emergencies.
• Stronger building codes and zoning laws in fire-prone areas can help prevent devastating losses.
• Increased funding for firefighting resources and community preparedness efforts is necessary as fires become more frequent and intense.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring evacuation orders – fires move faster than people expect.
• Underestimating fire risk – thinking “it won’t happen to me” leads to inaction.
• Using garden hoses to soak lawns – this drains municipal water supplies and has minimal effect.
• Leaving flammable materials near your home – woodpiles, furniture, and mulch can ignite quickly.
• Lack of insurance or inadequate coverage – many homeowners find out too late that they are underinsured.

Final Thought: Fire Is Unforgiving – Be Prepared

Wildfires are a natural part of many ecosystems, but they don’t have to become personal disasters. By taking proactive steps, following evacuation procedures, and ensuring proper insurance coverage, you can protect your home, family, and future.
Don’t wait until the fire is at your doorstep – start preparing today.

“Wildfire Preparedness and Evacuation Checklist”
*** A handy printable one-pager entitled “Wildfire Preparedness and Evacuation Checklist” is now available for free. The one-pager draws from information discussed during the Wildfire podcast, information from various AI models, and other relevant resources. Drop us an email to get a copy. ***