Create a defense buffer by clearing all flammable vegetation, dried tree limbs and other combustible materials from at least 30 feet around your home. Replace native plants with fire-resistant landscaping such as periwinkle, ice plant or Texas privet shrub. Consult a local nursery for fire-resistant plants in your area. Space trees and shrubs at least 10 feet apart. Remove branches that are closer than 10 feet to your chimney or a few feet from your roof.
Cover chimneys with a one-half inch or smaller mesh to prevent ash from igniting the landscape.
Remove dead branches and other yard debris from rooftops and gutters. If you have a swimming pool, purchase a pool pump that could come in handy in case you have to fight a fire. Prepare a family evacuation plan. Make an inventory of the objects in your home to give to the insurance agency in case fire does cause damage.