EXPERT INTERVIEW
Fire-ready homes.
Your landscape can help protect your property.
Jonathan Lim
Jonathan Lim | Senior Fire Inspector Senior Fire Inspector Jonathan Lim works in the Community Wildfire Mitigation section of the Orange County Fire Authority, where he helps people in high-fire-risk communities protect themselves against wildfires.
How does your team prepare neighborhoods for wildfire season, and how can residents get involved? Lim: We conduct home assessments, offer educational resources and collaborate with local agencies to reduce wildfire risk. Residents can get involved by attending community workshops, joining Fire Safe Councils or simply starting with their own property. For more information, visit the Orange County Fire Authority community website at OCFA.org/ community or the Cal Fire website readyforwildfire.org .
What should residents do to remain wildfire-ready?
Another big risk is having combustible materials such as plants, mulch, patio furniture and fences too close to the home.
Lim: Home hardening makes your home more resistant to catching fire from embers, radiant heat and direct flame contact. Key measures include installing ember-resistant vents, using noncombustible roofing and siding materials and sealing gaps where embers can enter. Regular maintenance is just as critical. Clearing gutters of dry leaves, inspecting roof edges and checking that fences or decks are made of fire-resistant materials can make a big difference during wildfire season.
How can plant choices help?
Lim: Firescaping focuses on using fire-resistant plants and design strategies that slow the spread of fire. In Orange County, native species like California lilac, manzanita and succulents are great options because they are low-water and naturally fire-smart.
To learn more about fortifying your home and protecting your family, go to OCFA.org/ready-set-go , email rsgoc@OCFA.org or call 714-573-6774.
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