If you live in Northern California, you know that fire season has become an annual reality, and it's one you can’t afford to ignore as a homeowner. Whether you live near open space in Rocklin, among the trees in Loomis, or in a suburban neighborhood in Roseville, the risk of wildfire touches every part of our region. While you can’t control the weather or the wind, you can take smart steps to prepare your homes and properties before the height of fire season arrives. It’s time to act now, and we’ll show you how. 

Defensible Space Starts at the Foundation

One of the best ways to reduce fire risk is by creating defensible space around your home. Firefighters often say that they can only do so much if a home hasn’t been maintained with prevention in mind. Start with the basics: clear dead leaves, pine needles, and brush from your roof, gutters, and yard. Keep firewood and propane tanks at least 30 feet away from the home. Trim tree branches so none hang over the roof or sit within 10 feet of your chimney. If a fire does come close, these small changes can mean the difference between minor damage and total loss.

Landscaping also plays a major role in home protection. Replace flammable plants with fire-resistant ones like yarrow, lavender, or sage. Use gravel, stone pathways, or well-watered lawns as buffer zones between your home and nearby vegetation. It may feel like cosmetic work, but it’s all part of a much bigger safety strategy.

Know What Your Insurance Actually Covers

Homeowners insurance is a must, but understanding what your policy does and doesn’t include is just as important. In recent years, many major insurance carriers have pulled out of high-risk fire zones in California or significantly raised premiums. Before fire season peaks, review your policy and speak with your agent. Double-check your dwelling coverage to make sure it reflects the current replacement cost of your home, not just its market value. If you’ve done any renovations or additions in the past few years, you may need to increase coverage.

It’s also smart to ask about loss-of-use coverage, which kicks in if you’re forced to evacuate or if your home becomes temporarily unlivable. Even if your area isn’t currently listed as high risk, policies and fire maps can change quickly. It’s better to get ahead of it now than be surprised later.

Preparedness Is Peace of Mind

Living in Northern California means enjoying natural beauty, but it also means taking responsibility for living safely in a fire-prone area. Have a go-bag ready with essentials, make an evacuation plan with your family, and stay connected with local fire alerts or apps that track air quality and nearby incidents. Preparation won’t stop a fire, but it will help you protect what matters most.

At Simple Real Estate, we know that part of loving where you live is understanding how to care for it. If you have questions about home safety, fire-wise improvements, or how your property compares to others in your area, we’re here to help (before, during, and after fire season).