While Pennsylvania isn't typically associated with wildfire risk, changing climate patterns and recent drought conditions have made fire preparedness increasingly relevant for homeowners. As a home inspector, I've seen how proper preparation can make the difference between minor damage and total loss.
Understanding Fire Risk in Pennsylvania
Our fire season typically runs from March through May and October through November when:
- Vegetation is dry
- Humidity is low
- Winds are strong
- Leaves and debris accumulate
Creating Defensible Space
The area around your home is your first line of defense:
Zone 1: 0-5 Feet (Immediate Zone)
- Use non-combustible mulch (rock, gravel)
- Remove all dead vegetation
- Keep gutters clean and debris-free
- Move firewood and propane tanks at least 30 feet away
- Remove anything stored under decks
Zone 2: 5-30 Feet (Intermediate Zone)
- Create fuel breaks with driveways, walkways, or lawns
- Keep lawns mowed to 4 inches or less
- Space trees to prevent crown-to-crown fire spread
- Remove ladder fuels (vegetation under trees)
- Prune trees up to 6-10 feet from ground
Zone 3: 30-100 Feet (Extended Zone)
- Reduce vegetation density
- Create islands of vegetation rather than continuous coverage
- Maintain access roads for emergency vehicles
- Remove dead trees and debris
Home Hardening Strategies
Roofing
- Best: Class A materials (metal, clay, concrete tiles)
- Good: Asphalt shingles with fiberglass backing
- Avoid: Wood shakes or shingles
- Keep roof and gutters clear of debris
- Install gutter guards to prevent accumulation
Siding
- Best: Fiber cement, stucco, brick, or stone
- Good: Metal siding
- Vulnerable: Vinyl (melts) and wood
- Seal gaps greater than 1/8 inch
Windows
- Install dual-pane or tempered glass
- Close windows and doors during fire threats
- Consider fire-resistant shutters
- Screen windows with metal mesh
Vents and Openings
- Cover with 1/8-inch metal mesh screening
- Install ember-resistant vents
- Seal gaps around doors and garage doors
- Close foundation vents during fire season
Emergency Preparedness
Create an Evacuation Plan
- Identify two exit routes from your neighborhood
- Designate a meeting place
- Practice with all family members
- Plan for pets and livestock
- Know your evacuation zone
Emergency Supply Kit
- Important documents in waterproof container
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Water and non-perishable food
- Battery-powered radio
- Flashlights and batteries
- Cash and credit cards
Home Inventory
- Video walkthrough of your home
- Detailed list of valuables
- Store copies off-site or in cloud
- Include serial numbers and receipts
Maintenance Schedule
Spring
- Clean gutters and roof
- Trim trees and shrubs
- Remove dead vegetation
- Service lawn equipment
Summer
- Maintain defensible space
- Keep grass short and watered
- Check and clean vents
- Store flammables properly
Fall
- Remove leaves from roof and gutters
- Clear debris from around home
- Inspect and clean chimney
- Winterize irrigation systems
Winter
- Plan improvements for next season
- Review insurance coverage
- Update emergency supplies
- Repair any damage to barriers
Insurance Considerations
- Review coverage limits annually
- Document improvements with photos
- Understand replacement cost vs. actual cash value
- Consider additional living expense coverage
- Keep policy information accessible
Community Preparedness
- Join or form a neighborhood watch group
- Share evacuation plans with neighbors
- Identify neighbors needing assistance
- Coordinate defensible space efforts
- Support community fuel reduction programs
During Fire Threats
If Time Allows
- Remove combustibles from around home
- Close all windows and doors
- Turn off gas at meter
- Fill pools, hot tubs, and buckets with water
- Place ladder against house for firefighter access
- Turn on exterior lights for visibility in smoke
Inside Preparations
- Close all interior doors
- Remove lightweight curtains
- Move furniture away from windows
- Turn off HVAC systems
- Leave lights on for visibility
Post-Fire Inspection
After a fire threat passes:
- Check for embers in attic and crawl spaces
- Inspect roof for damage
- Look for heat damage to siding and windows
- Test all smoke detectors
- Document any damage for insurance
The Home Inspector's Perspective
During inspections in fire-prone areas, I evaluate:
- Roofing material fire ratings
- Defensible space compliance
- Vulnerable building features
- Access for emergency vehicles
- Overall fire preparedness
While wildfire risk in Pennsylvania remains relatively low, preparation is wise given changing conditions. Simple improvements can significantly reduce your vulnerability.
For a comprehensive evaluation of your home's fire preparedness and overall safety, contact The Home Pros at (412) 403-6057. We'll help identify vulnerabilities and recommend practical improvements.
Share this article
Ready to Schedule Your Inspection?
Don't wait until it's too late. Get peace of mind with a professional home inspection.