With the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in recent years, it is more important than ever to prepare your home for the threat of wildfires.

Fortunately, you can take preventative measures to prevent or significantly reduce the risk of wildfire damage to your home. Home hardening is the process of preparing your home for potential wildfires. It involves creating defensible areas and choosing fire-resistant materials that protect against flames or embers. The National Fire Protection Association recommends following the fire zone checklist below to make your home safer from embers and radiant heat.

1. Clean roofs and gutters of leaves, dirt and pine needles.

2. Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent embers from entering.

3. Reduce embers that could enter through vents in eaves and attics by removing debris and installing 1/8-inch-thick metal screen.

4. Repair or replace damaged or loose screens and broken windows.

5. Screen or enclose areas under patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent the accumulation of debris and flammable materials.

6. Remove combustible materials from exterior walls, including mulch, flammable plants, leaves, needles, firewood stacks, or anything that can burn.

7. Remove anything stored under patios, porches or windows.

For more information on protecting your home, visit tahoelivingwithfire.com

Stay informed about new or current fires by downloading the Watch Duty app for free to your mobile device. The Watch Duty app is a real-time, fact-based information source monitored by real people. If an incident poses a threat to life or property, you will be notified immediately through the app. Watch Duty is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, nongovernmental organization focused on disseminating real-time public safety information from verified sources.

For more information about the Watch Duty app, visit watchduty.org.