People have died trying to rescue others when they assumed the situation was safe. Clear the yard of dead or low hanging tree branches, leaves, evergreen needles or dead plants. Keep your roof, eaves and gutters clear. Stack firewood well away from the house home and keep fire fighting equipment handy. Create a safety zone by keeping an area 30 feet from the house free of brush, branches or debris.
Plant naturally fire resistant plants and low grass in the zone.
Remove all tree branches up to seven feet tall. Beyond the safety zone, cut away branches from power lines and outbuildings. Build with fire retardant materials. Brick and metal are best. Wood and vinyl are worst.