Living With Fire program updates Tahoe Home Retrofit Guide for wildfire preparedness

On April 28, 2025, the Washoe County IVCB CAB meeting focused on critical fire safety measures for homeowners in the region, particularly in light of increasing wildfire risks. The discussions highlighted the importance of creating defensible spaces around homes and implementing fire-resistant landscaping practices.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to educating residents about the specifications for chimney screens and the necessity of using non-combustible materials for fences adjacent to homes. The presenters emphasized that during past wildfires, such as the Angora fire, fences acted as conduits for flames, leading to extensive property damage. To mitigate this risk, homeowners were advised to replace the five feet of fencing closest to their homes with non-combustible materials like metal.

The meeting also introduced the "Tahoe Living with Fire" guide, which offers a comprehensive resource for homeowners looking to retrofit their properties for better fire resistance. This guide includes recommendations for plant selections that minimize fire hazards, urging residents to avoid highly flammable species like ornamental junipers, which have been linked to rapid fire spread.

In addition to landscaping advice, the discussion included practical evacuation tips. Participants were encouraged to prepare a checklist of essential items to grab in case of an emergency evacuation, emphasizing the importance of having a plan in place. The presenters noted that while some tasks, such as moving furniture away from windows, can be helpful, the priority should be on securing the exterior of the home by removing flammable materials and ensuring a clear defensible space.

The meeting concluded with a call for community engagement, particularly with homeowners' associations (HOAs), to promote fire safety education and encourage the adoption of fire-resistant building materials. The presenters expressed a willingness to collaborate with HOAs to address architectural guidelines that may hinder homeowners from implementing necessary fire safety measures.

Overall, the discussions underscored the urgent need for proactive fire safety strategies in Washoe County, as residents face an increasingly volatile fire environment. The next steps involve disseminating the information shared during the meeting and fostering community awareness about fire preparedness and resilience.