Defensible space is a term used to describe the careful selection, location and maintenance of vegetation and other combustible materials on the property. The purpose of defensible space is to:

1.Minimize the pathways of wildfire to burn directly to the home

2.Reduce radiant heat exposures to the home and structures

3.Reduce the potential for embers to ignite vegetation adjacent to the home

4.Provide a safe place for fire personnel to defend the home and allow for safe routes for evacuation. 

The priority is to start at the house and work outwards giving the greatest effort to eliminating combustible vegetation and other materials within five feet of the house and any attached decks.

Visit the California Fire Safe Council for a detailed discussion of the small easy steps that could make all the difference. 

Sign up for a free and confidential defensible space advisory visit at the Nevada County Fire Safe Council