Florida Wildfires—Is Your Home at Risk?

When you think of natural disasters in Florida, you probably think of hurricanes, or maybe flooding. But did you know that many Florida homes are also at risk for damage from wildfires? According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), forests cover nearly half of our state. This means most of our communities are close to forests and wooded areas, and are therefore at risk for wildfires.

While it’s unlikely Florida will see devastation like that of the recent California wildfires, in 2023, Florida ranked fourth in the nation for number of fires. In that year, our state experienced 2,730 wildfires, which burned 99,642 acres. Florida’s dry season runs from October to May, and wildfire season peaks during late spring and early summer.

What you can do to prevent Florida wildfires

Despite Florida’s high number of lightning strikes, most Florida wildfires are caused by humans—either via arson or because of burning yard debris escaping and starting a wildfire.

There are a few things Florida homeowners can do to reduce the risk of losing their homes to a wildfire. These include:

Creating a defensible space around your home. Clear out dead plants, leaves, grass, and weeds in your yard. Clean gutters as well as the areas under and around decks, and keep your roof free of debris. Trim branches that hang over your roof, and make sure any dead branches are at least 10 feet from your chimney. Keep propane tanks and wood piles away from your home.

Considering using fire-resistant or non-combustible material when making home improvements such as building a balcony or replacing a roof.

Making sure  you have a working fire extinguisher and smoke alarms inside your home.

Making sure emergency vehicles can get to you if there is a fire. Access roads and driveways should offer clearance for emergency vehicles. Your address needs to be clearly visible from the street.

If you must burn yard waste, do so safely. Follow guidelines provided by the FDACS. Don’t burn on a windy day or during dry weather.

Reporting potential wildfire or arson activity. Florida has a Forestry Arson Alert Association. If you see suspicious activity, call 9-1-1, then 1-800-342-5869. Don’t approach the suspect, but do make note of his description, and that of any vehicle present, including license plate number.

Does Florida homeowners insurance cover wildfires?

Fire is typically a covered peril under Florida homeowners insurance, and damage to your home from a wildfire should be covered unless you have a policy that specifically excludes wildfire. If you own a business, commercial property insurance also usually lists fire as a covered peril.

If you need a homeowners insurance or commercial property policy, please call your local insurance experts at Lakewood Financial Services. You can reach us at (941) 747-4600, or if you prefer, contact us online here. Our office in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, also serves Bradenton, Sarasota, Sun City Center, and surrounding communities.