Implementation of any of the proactive strategies described below fall within the jurisdiction of the individual Mutuals. These can be raised for discussion by each Mutual’s Board of Directors.
Zone Zero
To protect structures, combustible materials within five feet of a building structure, including decks, wooden fences/gates, and stairs should be removed or replaced. Elimination of vegetation and mulch creates an ember resistant barrier.
Home Hardening & Landscaping
Home Hardening:
Structure protection efforts focus on retrofitting vulnerable areas like roofs, vents, and foundations with fire-resistant materials. Key recommendations include using Class A fire-rated roofing, installing 1/8-inch ember-resistant vent screens, and boxing in eaves to eliminate gaps. Additionally, keeping gutters clear of debris—potentially by installing non-combustible covers—is essential to prevent embers from igniting the roofline.
Landscaping: Community-Wide Fuel Management
Rossmoor utilizes proactive landscaping and fuel management to slow the spread of wildfires. Central to this is the $3.1 million "Shaded Fuel Break" surrounding the community, where thinned woodland reduces fire intensity. Each spring, RWC further protects the area by discing firebreaks into the hills and mowing grasses—specifically under PG&E lines and in high-risk zones. Complementing these efforts, Mutuals ensure all weeds and grasses are cleared within 100 feet of buildings to create a critical safety buffer.