Berkeley FireSafe Council - Dedicated to fire safety for our community in the Berkeley neighborhoods
Contractors and City Services to Assist you in Firescaping Your Property
BFSC has compiled a list of contractors that you may find helpful for wildfire prevention. We provide this list for your personal use without specific BFSC endorsements.
The Berkeley Fire Department sponsors the free Berkeley Chipper Program! The program provides for the curbside pickup, chipping, and disposal of vegetation material from residential properties. Make your reservations here: https://www.chipperday.com/berkeley
Screening Vents and Gutters
BFSC has identify a list of helpful information and resources for screening your vents and gutters -- the most essential element of home hardening. Our videos from Fire Safe Marin are useful.
Helpful Installation Videos
BFSC collaborates with other Bay Area FireSafe organizations. Fire Safe Marin has prepared a number of videos (https://www.youtube.com/@FIRESafeMARIN) for helping to harden your home.
This video from Fire Safe Marin provides helpful guidance for DYI installation of metal gutter guards: Install Metal Gutter Guards
Helpful hints for making and installing fire-resistant vent covers, an easy and inexpensive way to prevent embers from entering your home: Install Fire-Resistant Vents
Fire Resistant Fences and Decks
First 5 feet of a fence perpendicular and attached to a house must be non-combustible. We have identified materials and sources for non-combustible fencing, metal, pre-stressed concrete, and Class A composite material. Although not required, we have included non combustible decking material.
Composite decking is made from a blend of virgin and recycled polymers, along with organic material like wood flour. Engineered for sustainability that doesn’t compromise long-lasting durability, TimberTech Composite boards contain a blend of up to 85% recycled content — including plastic bags and laundry detergent bottles that may have otherwise ended up in a landfill.
Precast fencing solutions offer borders, privacy, and wall surface needs, without the use of heavy construction. The fence products are easy to install, very durable, and customizable to each project. Precast concrete offers many benefits over traditional methods and allows for customization after the installation as well..
Hardie Board, also known as fiber cement siding, is a composite material made from a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers. It is manufactured by James Hardie and is known for its durability and resistance to various weather conditions and pests.
Knotwood Fencing System offers flexibility to create a fence to suit your requirements. You chose the height, size and width of your slats. Lay them vertical, horizontal, diagonal or mix’n match. Butt the slats together for full privacy or space them out to see the view beyond. These and many more options are all yours.