Frequently asked questions

What is a hotshot?

Interagency Hotshot crews (IHCs), commonly called Hotshots or Hotshot crews, are highly trained, specialized wildland fire handcrews that perform some of the most demanding and hazardous tasks in wildland firefighting. Their profession requires a high level of physical fitness and the ability to demonstrate:

  • Extensive knowledge of fire behavior with the ability to develop and implement strategy and tactics on the most complex incidents under extreme conditions. 

  • A high aptitude for mitigating risk using exemplary situational awareness and outstanding communications skills.

  • Excellent leadership characteristics at all levels.


LEARN MORE: https://www.fs.usda.gov/science-technology/fire/people/hotshots

What is “Home Hardening?”

Home hardening is the term used to describe vegetation management compliance and building materials used to resist the intrusion of flames or embers projected by a wildland fire. It can be applied to new construction or for retrofitting an older home. Home Hardening considers the relationship between your home and its exposure to nearby combustible features such as vegetation, vehicles, accessory buildings, or even miscellaneous structures like a fence. 

What is a defensible space?

A defensible space is a buffer zone around your home designed to reduce wildfire risk. By managing vegetation, removing fuel, and creating strategic plant spacing, you give firefighters a safer area to defend your property and help prevent fire from reaching your home.

WHY NOW?

Federal firefighters—including hotshots, smokejumpers, hand crews, and engines—have long faced low wages and excessive workloads in hazardous conditions. Although a long-awaited pay bill was passed on March 14th, it fell short of resolving the pay disparity between federal firefighters and their counterparts at the state, county, and municipal levels. Additionally, the bill did not address critical issues such as an update to healthcare and mental health support. The business model of Hotshot home hardening is an employee owned and operated company that seeks to empower hotshots to further develop and hone their skills while working for themselves and serving their communities in the best way possible. 

How often should defensible space maintenance be performed?

Maintenance should be done at least once or twice a year, depending on vegetation growth, slope, and fire risk in your area. Regular upkeep ensures that fuel loads remain low and your property stays compliant with CAL FIRE standards.

Can you provide long-term maintenance plans?

Yes. We offer ongoing maintenance services to keep defensible space clear, vegetation healthy, and fire-resilient landscapes thriving year-round, giving homeowners continued peace of mind.

How much does a typical assessment or defensible space project cost?

Costs vary depending on property size, vegetation density, slope, and required services. After your consultation, we provide a detailed quote and recommended plan tailored to your property’s needs.

Do you help with erosion control after clearing vegetation?

Yes. We incorporate erosion control measures, such as soil stabilization, slope management, and strategic planting, to prevent runoff and maintain the long-term health and resilience of your property after brush clearing or hazard mitigation.

What types of plants are considered fire-resistant or fire-resilient?

Fire-resilient plants are typically native, drought-tolerant, and low in resin or oils. They grow in ways that reduce fuel load, retain moisture, and resist ignition. Examples include California lilac, manzanita, ceanothus, and various ornamental grasses suited for defensible space.

How soon can Hotshot Home Hardening come to assess my property?

We prioritize high-risk areas and can often schedule consultations within days to a few weeks, depending on location and wildfire conditions. Contact us to request your assessment and receive a detailed plan for reducing wildfire risk.

Are your services compliant with California wildfire regulations?

Absolutely. All work follows CAL FIRE PRC 4291, Title 14 CCR 1299, and other local defensible space standards to ensure your property meets legal requirements while maximizing fire safety.