1. Create a “Defensible Space,” an area around a home in which vegetation, debris and other types of combustible fuels have been treated, cleared or reduced.
2. Put on a roof that is fire-resistant, clay or tile perhaps. The probability that a home will survive a wildfire is greatly influenced by the components of the roof assembly. Class A-rated roof assemblies with noncombustible coverings are recommended.
3. Windborne embers and convective and radiant heat can be trapped near eaves and soffits, which can ignite if not constructed of noncombustible or fire-resistant materials. Eaves with short overhangs and flat soffits with a minimum of a 1-hour fire-resistance rating are recommended.
4. How well exterior walls are able to resist a wildfire depends largely on the materials used to construct the wall. Exterior wall coverings that are noncombustible or fire-resistant and not susceptible to melting are recommended.
5. Embers, firebrands and hot gases can become trapped under decks and other attached structures. Decks constructed of heavy timber or noncombustible materials are recommended. Isolating the attached structure by surrounding it with noncombustible material such as gravel, brick, and concrete pavers, and enclosing the underside of the deck with fire-resistant skirting are also recommended.
6. Once ignited, a fence constructed of combustible materials that is attached to or near a building can ignite the building. Fences and walls constructed of noncombustible materials such as concrete, stone and masonry are recommended. Attaching a fence or wall to the building should be avoided unless the fence or wall is constructed of noncombustible materials
7. The interior of a building can ignite from a wildfire even when the exterior does not. Interior and exterior fire sprinklers can prevent substantial damage to the building, protect nearby buildings, and prevent the fire from igniting nearby combustible vegetation.
8. Most utilities require penetration of the building’s envelope for ducting and conduit. Utility connections should be installed underground, if possible, and gaps and penetrations in exterior walls and roofs should be sealed with fire-resistant products. Fuel should be stored underground or surrounded by a noncombustible barrier.
9. Access roads and driveways that are wide and strong enough to accommodate emergency vehicles and provide access for firefighting efforts are necessary. Water resources for wildfire suppression must be accessible. Roads and water sources should be well marked on signs constructed of fire-resistant materials for ease of use by emergency response personnel.
10. Property owners can select construction sites in wildfire zones that reduce the potential for damage to a building from a wildfire. Owners should avoid selecting a construction sites that are: along a gully or in a narrow canyon, adjacent to a saddle or narrow mountain pass, adjacent to or on a steep slope.
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©2016 the Knoxville News-Sentinel (Knoxville, Tenn.)
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