Protecting Property from Wildfire Risk: Immediate Zone
Understanding Fire Ignition Zones
The area inside 30 metres from the exterior of your property is called the Property Ignition Zone. That zone is composed of three key areas: the Immediate Zone (0 to 1.5 metres), Intermediate Zone (1.5 to 10 metres), and the Extended Zone (10 to 30 metres). This series will illustrate how to reduce your property’s risk from wildfires by taking simple steps in each zone to prevent the spread of fire if it breaks out.
Immediate Zone (0 m to 1.5 m)
The Immediate Zone should be a non-combustible area that covers the area up to 1.5 metres from the property. This space is considered the most vulnerable and the following features of the property should be considered to reduce wind-blown embers from starting a fire. Embers and sparks from wildfires start up to 90% of residential fires.
Eaves and Vents: Vents provide an opening to embers endangering wooden rafters. They should have 3 mm screening or have an ASTM rating.
Roofs: A Class A-fire-rated roofing material such as metal, asphalt, clay and rubber composite are good choices. Untreated wood shakes can burn easily and should be avoided.
Windows: Tempered or multi-panel windows are recommended as a single pane offers little resistance to heat from a fire.
Gutters: Dry leaves and debris trapped in a gutter can easily ignite; consider using a screen to stop accumulation.
Siding: Untreated wood and vinyl siding offer little protection from fire. Stucco, metal, brick concrete and fibre cement siding are superior. Logs and heavy timber offer modest protection. Siding should have 15 cm clearance between it and the ground.
Doors: All doors including garage doors should be fire-rated.
Extra precautions for Immediate Fire Zone Safety
Maintenance: Keep the area around your property clutter free, do regular inspections and keep grass trimmed.
Chimney: A spark arrestor will prevent wind-borne sparks and embers starting fires.
Fences: Wooden fences and gates provide fire with a pathway to the house. Use a metal gate next to the property.
Decks: Fire resistant materials should be used in construction and open areas under decks, balconies and houses should be covered to stop embers from igniting fires.
Understanding Fire Ignition Zones
Extended Zone 10m – 30m
Reduce hazards by eliminating potential surface fuels (remove fallen branches, prune trees etc.)
Intermediate Zone 1.5m – 10m
A fire-resistant area, free from materials that could easily ignite.
Immediate Zone 0 – 1.5 m
A non-combustible aread up to 1.5 metres from the property.
Our team understands the risks faced by Strata and Condo Corporations
ABOUT THE BFL CANADA REALTY INSURANCE SERVICES TEAM
Our team of real estate specialists works collaboratively with you to develop a cohesive, sustainable, long term risk management plan. We are here to guide your annual insurance and risk management solutions to provide you with complete peace of mind.
CONTACT US
Our in-house claims team will track your claim from start to finish, providing “front of line” access to preferred restoration firms and adjusters. Their advocacy ensures your claim is well managed.
REPORT A NEW CLAIM
DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS
Toll Free: 1-866-669-9602
Email: realestateclaims@bflcanada.ca
24/7 EMERGENCY CLAIMS LINE
Toll Free: 1-866-938-5691
Want to learn more about wildfire safety and prevention?
Visit our Wildfire Resource Centre on our website:
