Nevertheless, there are still many older homes that do not have Class A roofs. Next, keep fire from entering the home through vents. Quarles also says to make sure vents are screened and checked frequently to make sure there is no buildup of combustible dry leaves and pine needles. Landscaping is next on the list. “Any plants near a house should be pruned, regularly watered and kept free of dead material,” Quarles said. Trees and shrubs farther away from the home can serve as buffers against radiation and flying embers. Dual-pane windows with tempered glass are most fire resistant. Tempered glass is much stronger than regular glass, so it provides more protection from breaking.

Decks also deserve attention for reducing the fire hazards -- homeowners need to keep decks cleaned of combustible debris.Detailed information on fire protection for your home is available from the University of California Cooperative Extension. Quarles said he expects new fire resistant decking products to come on the market when the 2008 building code goes into effect. Quarles acknowledges that replacing deck boards can be expensive, but, he says, “It may be one of the best investments you can make.” And finally, a wide array of non-combustible sidings – such as stucco or fiber-cement siding are available. There are many other areas where measures may be taken to keep the house safer in a fire, such as fences, garages and gutters.