Frequenty Asked Questions
What is the Firewise program?
The Firewise program is a community-driven initiative aimed at reducing wildfire risks through education and proactive measures. It encourages residents to take steps to protect their homes and surroundings from potential fire hazards.
Do all residents within the boundary have to participate?
No. Participation is not required but it is strongly encouraged. The more neighbors that participate, the safer our community will be.
Is participation limited to Tahoe Cedars Property Owners Association residents?
No. Anyone with a property within the Tahoma Grid Firewise boundaries is eligible to participate. See the About page to check to see if you are within the boundaries.
What does participation in Firewise entail?
Participation in Firewise includes implementing Firewise practices at your property (hazard reduction and home hardening), reporting your time and money spent, and attending optional, occasional Firewise events. Engaging with neighbors and sharing knowledge is also encouraged to foster a safer community. The minimum requirement is 1 hour per year per dwelling unit (or the monetary equivalent), though exceeding the minimum is strongly encouraged.
What are hazard reduction and home hardening?
Hazard reduction involves moving flammable items away from your dwelling unit and/or removing them from your property. Examples include removing pine needles and leaf litter from roof and around dwelling, removing dead trees or tree limbs, removing flammable items from under decks and porches, etc.
Home hardening is replacing combustible materials with noncombustible materials on your home. Examples include installing screening on vents, adding fire-resistant siding, replacement of wood fencing attached to the house with non-combustible materials, replacing missing shingles or fully replacing roof, etc.
Is there a cost to join the Firewise program?
Joining the Firewise program is free of charge. If you would like to make a donation to help support the cost of this website and other program expenses, please Contact Us.
How do I report my hours and money spent to get credit?
Please use this Reporting Form. It may be filled out for each instance, monthly, or once a year in November (whatever frequency works best for you).
How do I get a discount on my fire insurance?
Discounts are at the discretion of your insurance company and are not guaranteed. However, measures you take to reduce your fire risk and participation in the Firewise program make you eligible to request discounts. Contact your insurance provider for more information.
