Clean gutters and roof valleys before fire season
Dry leaves, conifer needles and twigs caught in gutters and roof valleys are one of the easiest ways for an ember to start a house fire. FireSmart...
Dry leaves, conifer needles and twigs caught in gutters and roof valleys are one of the easiest ways for an ember to start a house fire. FireSmart and Firewise USA both include gutter and roof cleaning as a core part of preparing the home ignition zone, because debris on the roof is in direct contact with the structure. Clean gutters every spring before fire season and again in late summer if you have nearby deciduous or evergreen trees that drop heavily. Pull leaves out of valleys, around skylights, and from the bases of dormers and chimneys. Trim back any branches that overhang the roof so new debris does not just refill the gutters next week. If you have continuous problems with needle drop, consider non-combustible gutter guards rated for ember resistance. While you are on the ladder, check that the gutters themselves are intact and securely fastened — sagging gutters hold standing water and even more debris. Five minutes with a gloved hand or a leaf blower can remove the single biggest ember-trap on most homes.
A gutter full of dry conifer needles is in direct contact with your roof — five minutes with a leaf blower removes the single biggest ember trap on most houses.
Source: FireSmart BC — Home Ignition Zone
Last reviewed 2026-05-02.
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