Insurance Companies Press Preventive Wildfire Measures Upon Coloradans

Some Colorado residents got startling news on the heels of what is forecasted to be a busy wildfire season -- their insurance coverage may be cancelled.

Insurance companies consider the battle against wildfires a team effort, and those who don't do enough to mitigate the danger around their own home could face consequences.

Officials say there is scientific proof that clearing fuels and building a defensible space around a home can save it from a wildfire.

"If you don't take those steps, you do run the risk of not having your insurance renewed -- not being able to get affordable insurance," said Carole Walker of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.

But many people have moved into the foothills specifically for the wooded environment.

Einar Jensen of Evergreen Fire and Rescue says you can still have trees right up next to your home, and in fact, they are considered part of the structure. But you must have a moat of defensible space around those trees near the structure, and others on the property.

"Sometimes it's a wake up call to just really take a look at what you need to do," said homeowner Leslie Williams.

State Farm Insurance Company says the process to make the area around a home safer can take anywhere between 18 and 27 months. Policies aren't just cancelled.

Despite, these warning letters have opened many eyes in the high country.

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