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SoCal Homeowners Urged to Prepare for Extended Wildfire Season

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/0 .. ged-to-prepare-for-extended-wildfire-season.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 19:45 GMT by CBS News

Los Angeles, CA - January 10, 2026 - As Southern California continues to grapple with extended and intensified wildfire seasons, experts are emphasizing the crucial role homeowners play in safeguarding their properties. The threat is undeniable, and proactive measures, however small, can significantly improve a home's chances of survival. Cal Fire Battalion Chief Mark McHale underscores that preparation should be an ongoing practice, not a reactive response during an active wildfire.

The Changing Landscape of Fire Season

The reality is that fire season in Southern California is no longer confined to the traditional summer months. Climate change, coupled with drought conditions, has created an environment where wildfires can ignite and spread with greater frequency and intensity throughout the year. This extended fire season necessitates a renewed focus on preventative measures and a heightened awareness among homeowners.

Defensible Space: Your First Line of Defense

The cornerstone of wildfire preparedness is creating defensible space around your home. This involves reducing the amount of flammable vegetation within a specific zone surrounding the structure. This isn't just about clearing everything; it's about strategic removal and maintenance. Specifically:

• Zone 1 (Immediate Vicinity): This area, extending 30 feet from your home, requires the most rigorous attention. All flammable vegetation should be removed, including shrubs, trees, and ground cover. Decks and patios should be kept clear of debris.
• Zone 2 (Intermediate Area): Extending from 30 to 100 feet, this zone requires thinning and selective removal. Trees should be pruned to remove lower branches, creating vertical spacing between the ground and the foliage. This prevents ground fires from easily spreading upwards into the trees.
• Zone 3 (Extended Area): Out to 100-200 feet, further thinning of trees and brush is recommended, particularly on sloped terrain where fire spreads more rapidly.

Beyond Vegetation: Structural Considerations

While clearing vegetation is vital, upgrades to your home's structure can provide an additional layer of protection. These improvements, while potentially involving higher upfront costs, can significantly reduce vulnerability to wildfires.

• Fire-Resistant Roofing: Traditional asphalt shingles are highly flammable. Consider upgrading to materials like metal, tile, or composite roofing, which offer superior fire resistance.
• Fire-Resistant Siding: Wood siding is another significant fire hazard. Alternatives include fiber cement, stucco, or metal siding.
• Gutter Maintenance: Regularly cleaning gutters is critical. Accumulated leaves, pine needles, and other debris can easily ignite and act as a pathway for embers to reach the roof and structure.
• Window Protection: Consider installing dual-pane windows or applying fire-resistant gels to existing windows to reduce the risk of breakage from radiant heat.
• Screening Vents: Ensure all vents are properly screened with fine mesh to prevent embers from entering the home and igniting interior materials.

Small Changes, Significant Impact

Battalion Chief McHale emphasizes that it's the cumulative effect of these small, manageable changes that makes a significant difference. Procrastination can be costly. Acting now, even with modest steps, can greatly increase your home's resilience against the growing threat of wildfires.

Resources & Further Information

For comprehensive information and detailed guidance on wildfire preparedness, visit the Cal Fire website: [ https://www.fire.ca.gov/ ]. Local fire departments often offer workshops and resources for homeowners looking to better protect their properties. Don't wait until it's too late - prepare today for a safer tomorrow.