Consumer Connection: Act now to protect your home during Wildfire Awareness Month

Consumer Connection: Act now to protect your home during Wildfire Awareness Month

Topeka, Kan. - Kansas is no stranger to wildfires, with over 300,000 acres burned by wildfires in 2026 alone. National Wildfire Awareness Month, occurring each May, reminds Kansans of the increased risk of wildfires due to rising temperatures and dry conditions prevalent throughout the state. The Kansas Department of Insurance encourages homeowners to take time this month to evaluate their property for fire risks and take preventative measures to protect against wildfires.

"Wildfires can spread rapidly and cause significant damage with little warning. I encourage all Kansans to take proactive steps now to protect themselves, their families, and their property," said Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. "Simple, low-cost actions taken today can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk and improving safety."

The Department recommends taking the following precautions to protect your home against wildfires:

• Monitor your local fire department for burn bans and red flag warnings as it is often advisable to avoid outdoor burning during this season.
• Minimize fire fuel: Keep all vegetation and grass groomed within 105 feet of any structure and pick up any sticks or scattered branches within this range. Keep your wood pile, fuel tanks, and other burnable materials at least 30 feet from any structure.
• Maintain your chimney and keep it clean. Consider installing a spark arrestor or checking to ensure it is working properly.
• Make sure to keep at least 100 feet of garden hose attached to an outdoor faucet or spigot.

The Kansas Forest Service provides resources on how to be prepared, how to forecast and report a wildfire and a Wildfire Risk Assessment Portal. To access these resources, visit www.kansasforests.org/fire/.

The Department also reminds Kansans to review your homeowners or renters and auto insurance policies to understand what is covered and what is not in your policy. Important aspects of your policy to consider include additional living expenses (ALE), replacement versus actual cash value and when your insurance kicks in during an evacuation. Contact your insurance agent or the Kansas Department of Insurance's Consumer Assistance Division at 785-296-3071 or email [email protected] with any questions you may have.

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