As wildfires ravage parts of Los Angeles County, residents in Anaheim Hills are proactively preparing to protect their homes and neighborhoods. Jim McLain, who has lived in the area for nearly three decades, is leading by example, taking significant steps to fireproof his community. With wildfires spreading quickly and embers capable of igniting homes in an instant, the urgency to prepare has never been greater.
Proactive Measures by Residents
Jim McLain resides near the brush-filled hills south of Nohl Ranch Road and has taken several steps to mitigate the risk of wildfires. His efforts highlight the importance of preparation and community involvement to protect homes from potential disasters.
Key Fireproofing Actions Taken by McLain:
- Leaf Clearing: Regularly removes leaves and debris during wind events to reduce fuel for fires.
- Sprinkler System: Installed a remote-controlled sprinkler system to cover the townhome community in case of fire.
- Fire Hoses: Ensured each home in the community is equipped with fire hoses that can reach around their property.
- Ember-Resistant Vents: Advocated for the installation of specialized vents to prevent embers from entering attic spaces.
McLain emphasizes the danger of wind-driven embers, saying, “The wind could carry embers across our entire neighborhood and ignite homes in an instant.”
Ember-Resistant Vents: A Critical Defense
Ember-resistant vents have become a crucial fireproofing tool for many communities at risk. These vents prevent embers from entering attics, which are often the first areas to catch fire during a wildfire.
Insights from Kelly Berkompas, Co-Founder of Brandguard Vents:
- How They Work: The vents block embers while still allowing airflow to prevent overheating.
- Proven Success: Homes equipped with these vents have a significantly higher survival rate during wildfires.
- For example, 200 homes in Malibu and the Palisades with ember-resistant vents remained standing after recent wildfires.
- Rising Demand: Berkompas said, “Our phones have been ringing off the hook… Everyone is scared and realizes you have to harden your home in advance.”
Berkompas started Brandguard Vents two decades ago, but the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires have spurred a surge in interest from homeowners eager to protect their properties.
Why Fireproofing Matters
Wildfires can spread rapidly, often giving residents little time to evacuate or prepare. The embers carried by high winds pose the greatest threat, as they can ignite homes far from the actual fire line.
Effective Fireproofing Measures Include:
- Clearing Brush and Debris: Regularly remove vegetation and leaves near homes.
- Installing Fire-Resistant Vents: Prevent embers from entering vulnerable spaces like attics.
- Community Preparedness: Equip neighborhoods with shared resources, such as fire hoses and sprinkler systems.
- Hardening Homes in Advance: Invest in fireproof materials and proactive solutions before a fire threatens the area.
A Community-Wide Effort
McLain’s proactive steps underscore the importance of collective action. By working together, Anaheim Hills residents are creating a safer environment and minimizing the risk of catastrophic loss.
“Our neighborhood must work as a team,” McLain said. “It’s not just about one home; it’s about the entire community being prepared.”
As wildfires become increasingly common, fireproofing measures like those taken by Jim McLain and his neighbors in Anaheim Hills are essential. From ember-resistant vents to community-wide sprinkler systems, these proactive steps can save homes and lives. While wildfires are unpredictable and dangerous, preparedness remains the most effective defense against their devastating effects.
