3 Cost-Effective Steps to a FireSmart Home

In an era defined by climate change, wildfires have become an ever-present threat to communities around the world. The devastation they bring not only impacts the environment but also disrupts lives and communities. As wildfires continue to grow in frequency and intensity, it’s imperative for homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their homes and loved ones.

FireSmart homes – a concept that combines innovation, preparedness, and sustainable living to create resilient havens that stand strong in the face of wildfires.

Step 1: Maintain Your Home Twice Per Year

Maintaining a FireSmart home is an ongoing commitment that can significantly reduce the risk of devastating wildfires. By consistently implementing these measures, you can significantly protect your home and loved ones from the ever-present threat of wildfires.

• Remove needles, leaves and other debris from gutters, roof surfaces, decks and balconies. Regularly clean vents.
• Remove combustible materials (firewood and lumber) stored within 10 m of house perimeter and under decks.
• Remove all combustible ground cover (mulch and plants) within 1.5 m of the house perimeter.
• Mow the lawn to <10 cm and plant low-growing, well-spaced shrubs and other fire-resistant plants.
• Prune trees to create a 2 m clearance from the ground to the lowest tree branches.

Step 2: Do Simple Upgrades

Simple upgrades can make a world of difference in protecting your home from fires. These straightforward upgrades, when combined with consistent maintenance and a commitment to FireSmart principles, can substantially increase the safety and resilience of your home against the growing threat of wildfires.

• Replace worn or missing leather stripping on all doors, including garage doors.
• Add a non-combustible 3 mm screen to all external vents, except dryer vents.
• Create a 15 cm ground-to-siding non-combustible clearance (e.g., install cement board or metal skirting)
• Install non-combustible fencing within 1.5 m of the house (cement fibre, metal, chain link, or stone)
• Install non-combustible ground surfaces within 1.5 m of the house (mineral soil, rock concrete, or stone)

Step 3: Complete Complex Upgrades

For those looking to take their commitment to creating a FireSmart home to the next level, there are more complex upgrades and innovations that offer enhanced protection against fires. While these upgrades may involve more planning and investment, they can be instrumental in creating a FireSmart home that stands as a bastion of safety in the face of wildfires.

• Install Class A fire-resistant roof covering (e.g., cement fibre, metal, or asphalt shingle)
• Install non-combustible siding (stucco, metal, stone, cement fibre board)
• Install multi-pane or tempered glass windows and exterior fire-rated doors
• Retrofit all deck components to be fire-rated, with a continuous surface
• Remove conifer trees that are within 10 m of the house

Protect Your Home With Home Insurance

Ready to secure your home against unexpected disasters like fires? Connect with one of our trusted home insurance brokers today to explore comprehensive insurance options tailored to safeguard your most valuable asset.

From fire protection to all-encompassing coverage, our experts will guide you through the process of securing the right policy to protect your home and peace of mind. Don’t leave your home’s safety to chance – take the proactive step towards safeguarding your future. Contact us now and let us help you build a resilient future for your home.

Blog posts from Alpine Insurance are for general information only. The content should not be considered insurance advice. If you are in need of professional insurance advice, please reach out to our team.