IBHS News Releases

Tampa - California homeowners who want to increase their homes’ protection from wildfire now have a customized brochure to give them guidance.

A new California edition of “Protect Your Home Against Wildfire Damage,” published by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), has just been released. 

California terrain presents special challenges, in part because of the sloping landscape and types of shrubs and grasses growing there.  The brochure takes these particular issues into account when explaining how to prepare homes and yards to better survive a wildfire. 

IBHS offers a variety of home wildfire protection tips and suggestions, ranging from simple weekend tasks to projects that may require professional assistance.  For example, the material gives guidance on eliminating a fire’s fuel source, like dry brush, wood and leaves.  The use of non-combustible materials that protect a home’s exterior and ways to help keep flying embers out of vents and eaves are also presented. 

“The record number of acres burned by Southern California wildfires in 2003 is a dramatic reminder that though some areas are more at risk, wildfire can affect almost anyone living in non-urban areas,” said Harvey Ryland, IBHS president and chief executive officer.  “No home is fireproof, but by taking the necessary precautions, your home has a better chance of surviving such a catastrophe.” 
 
To download a copy of the brochure, click here, or obtain a free single copy by calling toll-free 1(866) 657-IBHS (4247).

IBHS is a national nonprofit initiative of the insurance industry to reduce deaths, injuries, property damage, economic losses and human suffering caused by natural disasters.