DEFEND WHAT MATTERS MOST: A HOMEOWNER’S WILDFIRE CHECKLIST
Living in California means enjoying breathtaking landscapes, but it also comes with the reality of wildfire risk. With over four million properties across the state facing moderate to high exposure, preparation is essential for protecting your home and peace of mind. At The Weiser Agency, we equip our clients with proactive insurance solutions and access to exclusive protective services designed for high-risk areas. Keep reading as we dive into key ways you can stay ahead this wildfire season.
BEYOND BASIC COVERAGE
Some insurance carriers now include wildfire response services as part of their coverage, with trained crews applying fire retardant, clearing brush, and coordinating with local fire departments to help protect homes in high-risk areas. At The Weiser Agency, we also use real-time alert technology to notify our clients when their property may be in a wildfire threat zone, allowing for quicker decisions and better preparation.
5 WAYS TO PREPARE AT HOME
When wildfire conditions rise, small improvements can go a long way in protecting your property. Here are five key ways to reduce your home’s wildfire risk:
Reevaluate your roof - In Santa Barbara and Montecito, Spanish-style clay tile roofs are common—and fortunately, they’re also one of the more fire-resistant options. Just make sure debris isn’t getting trapped underneath. Adding end caps to tiles can block out birds’ nests, dry leaves, and other flammable material. Considering a new roof? Concrete tile, slate, or composite shingles are great alternatives to wood shake or shingle.
Safeguard your outdoor spaces - Outdoor living is part of life here, but decks and patios can be highly vulnerable. If you're building or renovating, opt for fire-resistant materials like concrete or steel instead of wood. Outdoor furniture, especially cushions, can ignite quickly and is often placed right next to the home. If you ever have to evacuate, toss it in the pool or move it indoors to minimize risk.
Clear debris and dead vegetation - Dry leaves, branches, and untrimmed shrubs can act like kindling. Regular maintenance, like cleaning gutters, trimming trees, and removing brush, can significantly lower your home’s exposure.
Consider upgrading your windows and siding - Wildfire heat can shatter windows and ignite flammable siding. Consider swapping single-pane glass for double- or triple-pane with metal screens for added defense. When it comes to walls, non-combustible materials like stucco, fiber cement, or stone veneer are much safer than wood.
Help first responders help you - If firefighters can’t find your home, they can’t protect it. Make sure your house numbers are large, visible, and not obscured by any landscaping.
From real-time response to resilient design, wildfire preparedness starts with awareness—and with the right support. At The Weiser Agency, we guide clients through proactive steps that go beyond insurance, helping you protect what matters most. With the right plan in place, you can move through fire season with more confidence and less worry.