Sacramento, CA…Today, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) launched its annual home hardening and defensible space media and education campaign prompting Californians to take action to prepare their homes and property for wildfire. Featuring updated assets for 2026, this campaign encourages residents to act now to protect their homes and property from the growing year-round wildfire threat.

Simple actions—such as mowing grass, trimming trees, removing dead vegetation, and using noncombustible hardscape materials near structures—can make a significant difference in reducing wildfire risk.

“Preparedness starts at home, but it doesn’t end there. When neighbors, communities, and local partners come together, we build a stronger, more resilient California that is better prepared for wildfire,” said CAL FIRE Director and Fire Chief, Joe Tyler. “Data shows that when homes are hardened and defensible space is maintained, the risk of wildfire damage drops significantly. When more Californians take these steps, it strengthens the safety and resilience of our communities.”

Wildfires can expose homes in three primary ways: direct flame, radiant heat, and flying embers. Embers can travel up to a mile or more, igniting vulnerable areas such as roofs, vents, decks, and gutters. That is why preparing both your home and the surrounding area is critical.

Home hardening involves using fire-resistant and noncombustible materials to reduce a structure’s vulnerability to ignition. This can include upgrading roofs, vents, windows, and siding, as well as enclosing eaves and removing potential ember entry points. Many effective home hardening measures can be completed at low cost, such as sealing gaps, installing ember-resistant vents, and maintaining gutters free of debris.

In addition to hardening structures, creating defensible space is essential. Defensible space is the buffer around a home that helps slow or stop the spread of wildfire and reduces the chance of ignition from embers or flames.

This space is divided into three zones:

• Zone 0 (0–5 feet from your home): The ember-resistant zone, where combustible materials should be removed.
• Zone 1 (5–30 feet): The lean and clean zone, focused on reducing flammable vegetation.
• Zone 2 (30–100 feet): The reduced fuel zone, designed to decrease fire intensity.

CAL FIRE emphasizes that wildfire preparedness is a shared responsibility and encourages all Californians to take action now.

Through this campaign, CAL FIRE is highlighting the importance of home hardening and defensible space as the most effective ways for individuals and families to reduce wildfire risk. By taking proactive steps, Californians can significantly improve their home’s chance of surviving a wildfire while also helping protect their communities and first responders.

To learn more about how to harden your home and create defensible space, visit ReadyforWildfire.org.

To view, customize and download assets from this campaign to share, check out the Home Hardening and Defensible Space Toolkit.

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