FSSMC Home 2020
Welcome to FIRE SAFE San Mateo County
California's first fire safe council, working since 1987 to protect life, property, and the environment in San Mateo County's wildland-urban interface.
Start With the Big Three
Evacuation Preparedness
When a wildfire strikes, seconds count. If you live in the wildland-urban interface, you must be ready to evacuate throughout fire season: alerts registered, zone known, go-bags packed.
Home Hardening
Most homes ignite from wind-blown embers, not the fire front. Hardening the roof, vents, windows, deck, and the first 5 feet closes the pathways embers use to destroy homes.
Defensible Space
At least 100 feet of defensible space is required by law. It slows or stops fire spread, cuts radiant heat and flame contact, and gives firefighters a position they can defend.
Living With Fire in San Mateo County
We publish Living With Fire in San Mateo County, a magazine-style preparedness guide for local residents, free in PDF and print. Download your copy.
Our Programs
Chipper Program
No-cost chipping helps homeowners dispose of hazardous vegetation: you cut, we chip.
Grants
Grant funding turns plans into completed fuel reduction and education projects.
Fire History
From millennia of natural fire to the CZU Lightning Complex: what our county's fire record teaches.
Fire Crews
CAL FIRE hand crews work year-round reducing overgrowth and building fuel breaks.
Shaded Fuel Breaks
Strategic fuel modification that protects communities and improves forest health.
Fire Codes
The standards for defensible space, access, water, and construction across the county's agencies.
Our Projects
FIRE SAFE San Mateo County conducts local projects with grant and local funding, bringing education and fuel reduction to communities across the county. See current and past projects, or find your fire-safe community.