How Wildfire Threatens a House

Article Written by:

  • Glenn Nader, University of California Cooperative Extension, Yuba City, CA
  • Ed Smith, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, Reno, NV
  • Stephen L. Quarles, Insurance Intitue for Business & Home Safety, Richburg, SC

Knowing how wildfire threatens a home can effectively reduce the wildfire risk. Wildfire can threaten a home in three ways:

  • Wind-blown embers (firebrands)
  • Contact by flames
  • Radiant heat.

Wind-blown Embers

Embers are the leading cause of home loss during wildfire. Embers are burning pieces of vegetation …