🔥 Why Gutters Are a Fire Risk
During wildfires, embers can travel miles and land on homes. Dry debris in gutters can:
- • Ignite from a single ember — Dry pine needles catch fire easily
- • Spread fire to fascia and roof — Direct contact with wood
- • Be impossible to extinguish — Fire spreads before detection
- • Void insurance claims — Negligent maintenance is often excluded
⚠️ Many California homeowners have had fire insurance claims denied due to debris-filled gutters. Keep them clean!
Pre-Fire Season Checklist
1
Complete Debris Removal
Clear all pine needles, leaves, and organic matter from gutters and roof
2
Clean Downspouts
Ensure no blockages that could trap embers
3
Clear Roof Valleys
Remove debris accumulation within 10 feet of roofline
4
Install Ember-Resistant Guards
Metal micro-mesh blocks embers while allowing water flow
5
Trim Overhanging Branches
Remove branches within 10 feet of gutters
Fire Risk by Community
| Area | Fire Risk | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lake of the Pines | High | Dense pine, steep terrain |
| Alta Sierra | High | 2,800' elevation, heavy pine |
| Nevada City | High | Historic wood structures, dense forest |
| Grass Valley | Moderate-High | Pine/oak mix |
| Penn Valley | Moderate | Rural, some defensible space |
Ember-Resistant Gutter Guards
Metal micro-mesh gutter guards provide fire protection by:
- ✓ Blocking embers — Fine mesh stops burning debris
- ✓ Eliminating fuel — No debris accumulates inside
- ✓ Metal construction — Non-combustible materials
- ✓ Year-round protection — Always ready for fire season