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Leeds Today
By the People, for the People
Wildfire Mitigation Starts at Home, Says Washington County Specialist
Bridgette Butynski shares tips on how homeowners can protect themselves and their neighbors from growing wildfire risk.
Published on Feb. 13, 2026
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Bridgette Butynski, a community wildfire specialist in Washington County, Utah, emphasizes the importance of proactive wildfire mitigation and home hardening efforts to reduce the risk and impact of wildfires. She explains that creating defensible space around homes, upgrading fire-resistant building materials, and coordinating with neighbors are key steps homeowners can take to improve the chances of their homes surviving a wildfire.
Why it matters
Wildfires are an increasing year-round threat in many communities, with longer fire seasons, changing weather patterns, and more homes being built in the wildland-urban interface. Homeowner-led mitigation efforts can significantly improve a home's chances of surviving a wildfire and reduce the overall risk to entire neighborhoods.
The details
Butynski outlines two key strategies: mitigation and home hardening. Mitigation refers to proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk, such as creating defensible space by clearing flammable materials within 5 feet of the home, trimming trees, and maintaining healthy landscaping. Home hardening focuses on making structures more resistant to ignition by using fire-resistant roofing, covering eaves, and installing ember-resistant vents. Regular maintenance is also crucial, as even a well-hardened home can be lost if debris is allowed to accumulate.
- Wildfire is no longer a distant or seasonal threat, but a year-round reality for many communities.
The players
Bridgette Butynski
A community wildfire specialist with Washington County.
Washington County
The county where Butynski works as a community wildfire specialist.
What they’re saying
“Fires do not respect property lines, and neighborhoods that work together to reduce risk are far more effective than individual efforts alone.”
— Bridgette Butynski, Community Wildfire Specialist
“Preparedness is not a single project or a one-time investment. It is an ongoing commitment to safety, resilience and stewardship of the places we call home.”
— Bridgette Butynski, Community Wildfire Specialist
What’s next
Homeowners in Washington County should take advantage of local mitigation resources, defensible space guidance, and preparedness programs offered through the county and local fire agencies. This includes scheduling a home assessment, participating in community clean-up or chipping days, and talking with neighbors about evacuation planning.
The takeaway
By working together and taking proactive mitigation actions before the fire season begins, Washington County residents can strengthen their community's resilience and better protect their homes from the growing threat of wildfires.
