Living With Fire

What is a wildland-urban interface?

A wildland-urban interface (WUI) is the area where homes and communities meet wildland fire-prone natural areas. Living in wildland-urban interfaces – like Estes Park, Grand Lake, and other communities near Rocky Mountain National Park – means fire-preparedness should be a top priority for your household. Fire in this region is inevitable, and strengthening your home’s defenses against fire is necessary for your safety and the safety of your community.

How can I prepare my home for wildland fire?

Create Defensible Space

Defensible space is a buffer between your home and a wildland fire where the vegetation and other flammable materials have been modified to slow the fire from spreading. This buffer provides a safer space for firefighters to defend your home. Defensible space can look different from property-to-property because the necessary changes depend on many factors, including slope, topography, size, and type of vegetation.

Harden Your Home

Hardening your home means making your home more fire-resistant. This includes improving areas of your home that are vulnerable to embers and heat, including vents, windows, chimneys, and walls. Additionally, hardening your home means being prepared with the proper tools and evacuation routes necessary in case of fire.

Become Firewise

When it comes to wildland fire safety, reducing risks to communities needs to be a collective effort. Banding together with neighbors and other members of your community can help reduce risks of wildland fire to your home and town. The National Fire Protection Association helps residents reduce wildfire risks through their Firewise USA program.

How will I know if there's an emergency?

Sign up for an emergency notification system in your area to recieve alerts and updates during an emergency or disaster. If you live in Larimer County, sign up for notifications through the Larimer Emergency Telephone Authority. If you live in Grand County, CodeRED is your emergency notification system.