Protecting Your Home and Community from Wildfire

Why Firewise Matters

As beautiful as life is in El Dorado Hills, living within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) comes with real risks — especially during wildfire season. Many of us chose this area for its natural beauty and rural charm. But with those benefits comes the responsibility to prepare.

The El Dorado County Fire Safe Council, in partnership with national programs like NFPA’s Firewise USA, works to help our community understand the importance of fire preparedness and what it means to live safely in wildfire-prone areas.

What Is the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI)?

The WUI is where human development meets undeveloped wildland. This zone is especially vulnerable to wildfires, which can spread rapidly due to vegetation, winds, and limited access for emergency response.

Your Role: Creating Defensible Space

Creating and maintaining defensible space is every homeowner's responsibility. It’s not just a recommendation — it's a critical step in protecting your home, your neighbors, and your local first responders.

Defensible Space Guidelines:

• Zone 0 (0–5 feet from structures): Keep this area free of anything flammable — no mulch, firewood, or dry vegetation.

• Zone 1 (5–30 feet): Trim trees, remove dead plants, and space vegetation appropriately.

• Zone 2 (30–100 feet): Reduce fuel by thinning brush and managing grass height.

For full guidance, visit: NFPA Firewise USA - Preparing Homes for Wildfire

Fire Safe Council of El Dorado County: Education & Support

The Fire Safe Council of El Dorado County is committed to education, outreach, and project support for residents living in high-risk wildfire zones.

Their Programs Include:

• Neighborhood Firewise USA certification

• Chipping programs

• Home assessments

• Defensible space workshops

• Community wildfire protection planning

Learn more: edcfiresafe.org

Get Involved. Stay Informed.

We all play a part in wildfire prevention. Take the time to:

• Learn how to harden your home

• Talk to your neighbors about becoming a Firewise USA® site

• Stay alert during fire season

• Support your local Fire Safe Council and fire department efforts

Together, we can create a more fire-resilient El Dorado Hills.