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Engineering Laboratory / Fire Research Division

Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Group

Primary Parcel Hazard Mitigation

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Fuel removal and displacement (when possible)
is always preferable to exterior hardening.

Assess property features that can contribute to fire pathways on or across a property to protect the home (Table C):

  • Firewood piles ($)
  • Vegetation ($ to $$)
  • Sheds ($ to $$$)
  • RVs ($)
  • Fences ($)

 

Additional mitigating actions and targeted hardening of the residential structure and nearby fuels may be necessary when a sufficient separation distance is not possible.

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Scenario 1 - Exterior hardening of the primary residence is not necessary because the distance between the home and shed is sufficient to prevent ignition by flames. Ember protection is still needed, however.
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Scenario 2 - For intermediate separation distances, directional hardening of the home facing the shed (indicated in blue) can help increase the ignition resistance of the residence.
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Scenario 3 - The spacing between the home and shed is too close. The fire exposure to the home will likely be too intense for exterior hardening to be cost-effective. Removing the shed is best.

 

 

Created July 6, 2023, Updated August 22, 2023