Prepare & Protect What Matters Most

Across the western U.S., large wildfires continue to burn through thousands of acres—upending lives, destroying homes, and straining the insurance market. As of early June 2025, nearly 30,000 wildfires have scorched over 1.2 million acres—more than double the number of fires from this time last year. In California alone, January’s Eaton and Palisades Fires destroyed more than 18,000 structures and are projected to result in over $20 billion in wildfire insurance coverage losses.

]It’s a troubling pattern we’ve seen building for years—and climate change, dry conditions, and human activity are all contributing factors. According to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, over 80% of U.S. wildfires are started by people. Once ignited, warmer temperatures and dry vegetation can help fires spread faster and make them harder to contain. California could see a 77% increase in land destroyed by wildfires by 2050.

With wildfires growing more destructive, it’s more important than ever to be proactive, prepared, and protected. Here’s how to reduce wildfire risk to your home, prepare for evacuation, and ensure your homeowners insurance is ready when you need it most.

Be Proactive: Reduce Wildfire Risk and Protect Your Home

Taking steps to fire-harden your home can make a significant difference in protecting what matters most.

• Create defensible space: Clear 50–100 feet of vegetation around your home to slow fire spread.
• Clear your roof and gutters: Remove leaves, pine needles, and other flammable debris.
• Up-limb your trees: Trim lower branches up to 15 feet off the ground.
• Choose fire-resistant landscaping: Use non-combustible plants and gravel over mulch.
• Schedule a fire inspection: Ask your local fire department for recommendations to reduce your wildfire hazard.

Read more about protecting your property:
> 10 Expert Tips for Fire Safety (Central Insurance)
> 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Fire Sprikler System (Central Insurance)
> Fire Extinguisher Safety (Central Insurance)

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Be Prepared: Wildfire Evacuation and Insurance Tips

If your area is under threat of wildfire, knowing how to respond quickly can help protect your family and your finances.

• Sign up for emergency alerts: Enroll in your community’s alert system and monitor NOAA and EAS warnings.
• Pack a wildfire evacuation kit: Include water, food, medications, N95 masks, and other essentials for each family member.
• Store important documents: Keep critical paperwork and valuables in a fireproof safe.
• Map your evacuation routes: Plan multiple exit options and make sure your family knows them.
• Leave early if ordered: Delaying evacuation can put you at risk and strain emergency services.

More emergency preparedness resources:
> How to Make an Emergency Preparedness Plan for Your Office (Central Insurance)
> U.S. Fire Administration Launches New Tools To Raise Awareness on Wildland Urban Interface Fire (FEMA)

Be Protected: Review Your Wildfire Insurance Coverage

As wildfire seasons grow longer and more severe, it’s crucial to confirm that your homeowners insurance provides the protection you need.

• Check your dwelling and personal property limits: With rising construction costs, many families discover too late that they’re underinsured.
• Understand loss of use coverage: If a civil authority orders evacuation or your home becomes uninhabitable, your policy may cover hotel stays and additional living expenses.
• Create a household inventory: This can streamline your claims process and ensure nothing is overlooked.
• Talk to your agent: In some high-risk areas, insurance carriers are adjusting wildfire guidelines. Your agent can walk you through available options and mitigation discounts.

Wildfire Insurance and Recovery Resources

Whether you’re preparing for fire season or dealing with its aftermath, having the right information at your fingertips makes all the difference. Explore these reliable wildfire insurance and recovery resources to stay informed and protected.

Use the three P’s—Proactive, Prepared, Protected—to stay ahead of wildfire risk.

With smart planning and the right wildfire insurance coverage, you can help protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.