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Landscaping

Landscape according to the recommended defensible-space zones. That is, the plants near your home should be more widely spaced and lower growing than those farther away.
Do not plant in large masses. Instead, plant in small, irregular clusters or islands.
Use decorative rock, gravel and stepping stone pathways to break up the continuity of the vegetation and fuels. This can modify fire behavior and slow the spread of fire across your property.
Incorporate a diversity of plant types and species in your landscape. Not only will this be visually satisfying, but it should help keep pests and diseases from causing problems within the whole landscape.
In the event of drought and water rationing, prioritize plants to be saved. Provide available supplemental water to plants closest to your house.
Use mulches to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth. Mulch can be organic or inorganic. Do not use pine bark, thick layers of pine needles or other mulches that readily carry fire.
Be creative! Further vary your landscape by including bulbs, garden art and containers for added color.