If your home doesn't ignite, it can't burn. 

Embers are the #1 Threat to Your Home 

Most homes do not ignite from direct contact with flames.   90% of homes are destroyed indirectly by wind-borne embers carried ahead of a wildfire.   
Embers can glow as hot as the fire from which they arise, and are light enough to be carried by the wind for long distances without being extinguished.  Embers are the primary reason properties go up in flames whenever a wildfire is nearby.    Taking necessary measures to prepare your home can help increase its chance of surviving wildfire. ​

Things You Can Do to Harden Your Home 


 #1 : Roof 
Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home.  Homes with wood shake roofs are particularly at high risk of being destroyed during a wildfire.     
  • Build your roof or re-roof with Class A fire-rated materials
  • Replace or repair any loose or missing roof tiles to prevent ember penetration 
  • Remove plant debris; such as pine needles, leaves and branches from the roof 

  #2 : Vents & Chimneys 
Vents on chimneys and on your home create openings for flying embers.   
  • Cover all vents with 1/8” metal mesh
  • Install an approved spark arrestor on your chimney 
  • Protect eaves or cornices with baffles to block embers 

 #3: Windows & Skylights 
Heat from a wildfire can cause windows and skylights to break even before the home ignites – allowing burning embers to enter and start fires inside.    Single-pane windows in particular can easily break from heat exposure.  
  • Install double-pane windows, with one-pane of tempered glass
  • Replace plastic skylights with types constructed of double-pane glass   
  • Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and broken windows
 
#4: Decks 
Decks should be built with ignition-resistant, non-combustible materials.  
  • Remove flammable materials (such as firewood & debris) stored underneath your deck
  • Use metal flashing between the deck and house 
  • If a wildfire threatens, place combustible patio furniture and cushions inside your house or garage  

 #5: Gutters 
Debris in your gutters is a key source of ignition in an ember fire.   
  • Routinely remove debris from your gutters
  • Screen or enclose gutters to prevent any accumulation 
  • Use metal gutters, not plastic 

Colorado State Forest Service
​Home Hardening Guide 

Wildfire Prepared Home Assessment Program
​Supported By 

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