Wildfire Preparedness
We believe that we’re beyond lucky to get to live in California. That said, California continues to be at risk of large wildfires due to prolonged dry conditions. We’re all too well aware that our hot, windy weather can lead to highly flammable vegetation – this puts more than 4.6 million properties in California at moderate to high risk of wildfires. We, like many of you, choose to build our lives and businesses in Santa Barbara, despite these risks, because we believe life in this state is incredible and deserves to be protected as such. Trust The Weiser Agency team with some of our favorite tips to protect you and your loved ones this wildfire season.
SERVICES FOR SAFETY
Partner with Weiser to access high-end insurance solutions and services when you need it most.
Weiser has access to an elite group of insurance carriers, many of whom provide services similar to a private firefighting service. In the event of a wildfire, a team of trained responders will work with local authorities to gain access to a home. Once there, the team protects it at all costs and works to implement many of the fireproof strategies mentioned below. As a result, clients have received photos of their protected home in real time, even when a wildfire is approaching nearby.
Weiser has also invested in technology that immediately notifies our local clients potentially impacted by a wildfire or other large scale event. This allows us to communicate with clients in real time during a moment of need. In doing so, Weiser’s team can proactively provide helpful local resources and support to our clients when they need it the most.
FIREPROOF YOUR HOME
At Weiser, we are planners through and through – it’s part of our DNA. We invite you to join us in planning ahead to prepare your home in case of the unexpected. There are many ways to help prevent wildfires from reaching your property. Here are five ways to reduce wildfire risk to your home:
Re-evaluate your roof. The shape and material of your roof matters – a lot. Thanks to the popularity of Spanish architecture in our area, many roofs are made of clay tile which is a great option to make your home more fire safe. End caps can help further protect a clay tile roof by making sure no birds nests or other debris get in there. While tile itself is pretty sturdy, stuck debris can still make it flammable. Roof alternatives like concrete tile, slate, or composite can also be excellent options when designing for fire safety since these roof materials are less flammable than wood shingles or shake. Pro tip: A steeper roof is also more fire resistant. A steep roof lets debris roll off before it has time to burn the material.
Protect outdoor living spaces. Easy indoor-outdoor living is a staple for many in Santa Barbara & Montecito. Of course, Weiser recommends building any outdoor decks or structures with concrete or fire-resistant material since wooden decking or other substitutes can be highly flammable. Pro tip: Patio furniture can be one of the most flammable items and is usually positioned near ahouse. If you need to evacuate, Weiser recommends throwing it in the pool or pushing it inside on your way out.
Remove debris & dead vegetation. Regularly clearing any leaves, twigs, or debris from gutters could go a long way toward protecting your home in the event of a fire. Maintaining fencing, trimming trees, and ridding dry branches are simple solutions for optimal prevention. Pro tip: Some parts of town partner with the Fire Department to conduct regular brush chipping. If you plan regular removal of debris / trimming of trees ahead of these events, your debris will be removed and chipped for you.
Invest in the right windows and exterior walls. Intense heat can cause windows to break during a nearby wildfire. Consider replacing single-pane windows with double or multi-pane glass with screens. For exterior walls, avoid using wood siding and use non-flammable materials such as brick veneer, stone veneer, stucco, or fiber-cement. Pro tip: Get the wood-siding look with more durable options like cement siding.
Plan for emergency responder access. To help firefighters and first responders identify and access your home, make sure street numbers are visible. Pro tip: Leaving exterior flood lights on if you evacuate can help firefighters identify your home and provide much needed visibility through the smoke.
Here to Help
Protecting your space from wildfires can seem overwhelming – partnering with The Weiser Agency can help put your mind at ease. With the right knowledge, tools, and Agency by your side, you will be more prepared for the unexpected, knowing that we work hard to protect the people and places you love.