Recent data estimate that 243,136 Texas homes face “very high” wildfire risk, putting Texas among the top three states nationally for homes at extreme risk.
In 2024, Texas’s largest fire in history burned over 1 million acres. The Smokehouse Creek Fire began due to a downed power line and destroyed over 100 homes. According to the US Forest Service, nearly 84% of wildfires are started accidentally and could have easily been prevented.
Did you know 86% of Texas wildfires occur within just two miles of a community? Even a small spark can start a fire that spreads quickly.
Make Your Home Firewise
Follow these safety measures year-round to protect your home from damage caused by wildfires.
Clear the area around your home: The Texas General Land Office recommends building or retrofitting homes using fire-resistant materials and maintaining at least a 30-foot defensible space clear of flammable debris. This includes dead leaves and pine needles from roofs, gutters, decks, patios, and fence lines. Wood piles and flammable landscaping material, such as some types of mulch, should be at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. Consider replacing mulch with rock or gravel, if possible.
Trim trees and shrubs: Avoid overhanging branches, plus trim back shrubs. Reduce the chances of fueling embers by thinning out trees to leave up to 15 feet between tree crowns. Be sure that landscaping—greenery and the lawn—is healthy and well-irrigated.
Seal and close exterior openings: Some homes are damaged by wildfires as a result of wind-born embers getting inside through exterior attic vents, pet doors, or other unsealed openings such as the area beneath decks. Besides clearing the area around your home, periodically check to be sure openings are properly sealed or screened.
Here are some additional ways to reduce your risk:
- Never, ever leave a hot grill, smoker, or backyard fire pit unattended. Always be sure to have a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby, just in case.
- Do not park vehicles on dry grass or tall grass. The temperature of the exterior metal on catalytic converters on vehicles can reach up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep garages and storage sheds as clutter free as possible. Highly flammable items such as pesticides, paint, and gas cans for lawnmowers should be stored safely. Consider installing a fire-resistant closet or storage unit for added protection.
Keeping these areas as clear as possible can make all the difference for firefighters trying to save your home.
More Resources:
Access online tools like TxWRAP for personalized wildfire risk assessments.
Get guidance on firewise attic and crawl space vents to improve ember resistance in home design with Texas A&M Forest Service’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan Guide.
Learn more tips at Texas General Land Office’s Wildfire Preparedness page.