Building materials and design play a significant role in determining the amount of exposure that a structure can endure before catching fire.

• Use Class A roofing materials that are tested ASTM E108 or UL 790.
• Choose wall materials that resist heat and flames, such as cement, plaster, stucco and concrete masonry.
• Install single- or dual-pane tempered glass windows, doors and skylights, which typically withstand the radiant heat exposures capable of igniting the surrounding combustible materials.
• Eaves, fascias and soffits should be boxed or enclosed with noncombustible materials to reduce the risk of wind-blown embers becoming lodged there.
• Vented openings in the attic, foundation and subfloor should be screened with 1/8-inch mesh to keep out flying embers.
• Install a spark arrestor in chimneys that is made from welded wire or woven wire mesh with 1/2-inch openings.
• Box in the undersides of overhangs, including room push-outs, bay windows, decks, porches, carports and balconies with noncombustible or fire-resistant materials.
• Replace address numbers with noncombustible, reflective numbers that are clearly visible from the road.
• Fences made of combustible materials should be separated from a home or business with a metal gate.
• If your home or business is gated or in a gated community:
  • Make sure the gate opens inward and is wide enough to accommodate fire fighting equipment.
  • The gate should be at least 30 feet off of the main road, so that the equipment can pull off the road to open the gate.
• If possible, widen your driveway:
  • A width of at least 12 feet will accommodate firefighting equipment.
  • Trim trees over driveway to create at least 13 feet of vertical space.