K
B Home has unveiled its first wildfire-resilient neighborhood in Southern California, a solution aimed at protecting structures and communities from devastating natural disasters. The Dixon Trail community in Escondido is the first in the nation to meet home- and neighborhood-level wildfire resilience standards developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

    The community was built with fire-resistant materials and designed to protect against direct flame contact, radiant heat, and embers. KB Home implemented various strategies to prevent wildfires from becoming catastrophic, including installing Class A fire-rated roofs, noncombustible gutters, upgraded windows and doors, and ember- and flame-resistant vents for homes.

    A 5-foot noncombustible buffer was created around structures, and nearly all buildings were separated by more than 10 feet. Fire-resistant materials like all-metal fence systems were used to decrease potential fuels. This innovative approach aims to reduce the likelihood of wildfire spread and protect residents from devastating losses.

    The community's development comes after a JPMorgan analysis revealed that economic losses and insured losses caused by Southern California wildfires are likely to be the most costly in state history. The 2018 Camp Fire, which held the previous record for highest insured loss wildfires in California, was estimated to have caused significant damage and loss of life.