In The News – The Most Effective, Low-Cost Ways to Harden Your Home Against Wildfire
May 6, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Moonshine Ink, 04/09/2026, Written by Sofia Huston
In the wake of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, investigators documented entire blocks where most homes were destroyed while a few remained standing — and it wasn’t random luck. Closer inspection revealed consistent differences in the materials, attachments, and surrounding conditions that influence wildfire resilience.
This pattern is observed repeatedly after major wildfires. Most homes are destroyed when wind-blown embers ignite materials on or near the structure or enter through small openings. Fire takes hold and spreads rapidly.
Here in Truckee, wildfire is part of the landscape. It’s not a question of if a fire will occur, but when. Wind can launch embers miles ahead of a blaze. During major events, firefighters cannot be everywhere at once. Homes must be able to withstand embers on their own.