A live demonstration held last week in San Diego’s East County region during Wildfire Preparedness Week showcased the difference wildfire mitigation can make when it comes to protecting homes.

Organized by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) in collaboration with CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and the CAL FIRE San Diego Unit, the event gave local officials, media and residents a close-up look at how research-driven strategies can reduce the risk of wildfire damage.

The side-by-side burn demonstration featured two structures—one built with mitigation measures in place, and one without—to visually emphasize how small, proactive steps can significantly influence a home’s survival during a wildfire. Central to the demonstration was Zone 0—a five-foot perimeter around the home kept clear of flammable materials to prevent ignition from winddriven embers.

“The science is clear. Creating a noncombustible buffer around your house is the most effective defense we have so when embers land in that space, there’s nothing to ignite,” said IBHS CEO Roy Wright. “We’re not asking people to choose between safety and curb appeal—there are smart, attractive ways to have both.”

The event came at a critical time. Following an unprecedented start to the year for wildfires in Southern California. With peak wildfire season just around the corner, fire officials urged residents to begin mitigation now.

“The devastating wildfires in January serve as a stark reminder that wildfires are not confined to a season; they are in fact a year-round threat,” warned State Fire Marshal Chief Daniel Berlant. “This live demonstration shows that homes lacking wildfire mitigation are highly susceptible during a wildfire. Fight to be the house still standing after a wildfire occurs, maintain defensible space and harden your home.”

IBHS’s Wildfire Prepared Home program offers homeowners a clear path to protect their homes from embers, starting with key upgrades such as Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents and gutters and defensible space.

For added protection from flames and radiant heat, the program also offers the Wildfire Prepared Home Plus designation.

For tools, tips, and resources on how to prepare your home and property against wildfire threats, visit readyforwildfire.org.

(Courtesy photos)