Wildfire Preparedness

Wildfire Preparedness for Rural Missoula County Residents

Understanding Your Risk

Living in rural Missoula County offers beautiful views, quiet surroundings, and close access to nature—but it also brings an elevated risk of wildfires. Homes in wildland-urban interface areas are particularly vulnerable, not just to direct flames but to windborne embers that can ignite roofs, decks, or landscaping. Fortunately, there are proven steps you can take to reduce the threat and increase your home’s resilience.

Hardening Your Home

One of the most effective ways to reduce wildfire risk is by making your home itself more resistant to fire. Start with your roof, which should be made of fire-rated material like metal, tile, or asphalt shingles rated Class A. Install ember-resistant vent covers on attic and crawlspace openings, and make sure gaps around eaves, doors, and windows are sealed to prevent embers from entering. Replace single-pane windows with dual-pane, tempered glass versions, which are more resistant to heat and breakage. If you have a wood fence or deck, ensure it’s made of treated wood or non-combustible materials—especially where it connects to your home.

Creating Defensible Space

Defensible space is the area around your home where flammable vegetation and materials are managed to reduce fire intensity and allow firefighters to operate more safely. Within the first five feet of your home, remove anything combustible—including mulch, firewood, and plants with dry, oily leaves. From five to thirty feet out, keep grass mowed low, prune trees regularly, and space vegetation to slow the spread of flames. Beyond thirty feet, thin out dense brush and lower tree limbs to prevent fire from moving upward into the canopy.

Protecting Outbuildings and Utilities

Don’t overlook sheds, barns, and propane tanks on your property. These structures should be surrounded by cleared, well-maintained space just like your home. Ensure any nearby vegetation is trimmed and that firewood, equipment, and other fuels are stored safely away. If possible, retrofit older outbuildings with fire-resistant materials or add ember screens to vents and openings. Keep grass mowed and weeds managed across your property to prevent fires from gaining momentum.

Improving Emergency Access

Making sure emergency responders can access your property is critical in a wildfire. Your driveway should be wide enough for emergency vehicles, with overhanging branches trimmed to at least 13.5 feet high. If possible, include a turnaround area that can accommodate large trucks. Your house number should be clearly visible from the road, using reflective materials if possible. This small detail can save critical time during an emergency response.

Being Prepared to Evacuate

Preparedness is not just physical—it’s also about planning. Create a go-bag for each member of your household that includes medications, important documents, food, water, and other essentials. Make a written evacuation plan, identify multiple exit routes, and practice them regularly. Sign up for Smart911 alerts through Missoula County to receive real-time emergency notifications.

Support from the Home Upgrade Hub

Missoula County’s Home Upgrade Hub is here to help residents prepare for wildfire. We offer free or low-cost home assessments that identify vulnerabilities and provide tailored recommendations for home hardening and defensible space. We also connect residents with trusted local contractors and keep track of available rebates, grants, and cost-sharing programs to make your improvements more affordable.

By taking steps now, you can help protect your home, your family, and your community from the growing threat of wildfires.