What you get
Knowledge
Know how embers get into a house, what Zone 0 and defensible space mean, who orders an evacuation and how the FAIR Plan works.
Positioning
Work through your house in order and keep the records your insurance agent will ask for.
Mindfulness
Keep one checklist for the house, and decide when you'd leave before a fire starts.
Where to start
Not for emergencies
These steps are for before fire season. If there's a fire near you, follow official orders.
Clear Zone 0
That's the first five feet around your house, and it's usually the cheapest place to start.
Fix the roof and openings
Embers get in through vents, eaves and windows.
Work out through Zones 1 and 2
Save photos and receipts as you go.
Based on NFPA, IBHS and LA County Fire guidance. The full order is in the guide.
Questions
Does this replace official guidance?
No. Follow CAL FIRE and your local officials.
Will this lower my premium or get me insured?
Maybe. Your agent and insurer decide that.
Is this professional advice?
No. We connect you with licensed professionals.
Can preparing guarantee insurance, or that my house survives?
No. Preparing can help when you shop for insurance, but nobody can promise a policy, a discount or that a house will survive a fire. California's 2026 bill to make insurers cover hardened homes died in committee.
Does this show me how to defend my home?
Yes. Mandatory evacuation orders come first: if you're ordered to leave, leave.
Can I do this on a tight budget?
Yes. A lot of the early steps are cheap, like clearing the first five feet.