

"I have responded to wildfires in California for 33 years (1987-2020). I have seen fires change from “normal” wildfires to climate change-driven, extremely destructive, and community-replacing wildfires. I have also helped develop the post-fire damage inspection process.
Just like when a tornado comes people need a safe place to shelter if they are not able to escape in time. The FORT™ is an option to provide that life protection as a last resort."
-Mike Wilson, Retired Division Chief for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
A wildfire bunker is a purpose-built structure designed to provide protected refuge during a wildfire, typically with fire-resistant construction and a dedicated breathable air system. A fire shelter is a broader term that can include smaller or less engineered solutions; not all fire shelters are designed for residential use or extended occupancy.
The FORT™ is a fire-resistant onsite refuge designed to protect people when evacuation during a wildfire is impossible. It is engineered using advanced refuge chamber technology, includes a life-support air system, and has undergone extensive third-party testing to withstand extreme wildfire conditions.
A fire shelter for homes is a last-resort safety structure intended to provide temporary refuge during a wildfire if escape routes are blocked. Unlike general safe rooms, a residential fire shelter must address extreme heat, smoke, and breathable air during wildfire burnover conditions.
When properly engineered, tested, and used as intended, wildfire bunkers can provide life-saving protection in situations where evacuation is not possible. Their effectiveness depends on factors such as fire-resistant construction, air supply, proper placement, and responsible use.
A wildfire shelter can be safe if it is professionally designed, rigorously tested, and used only as a last resort. Poorly designed or DIY shelters can be dangerous, which is why evacuation is always the safest option whenever possible.
Yes. Evacuation is always the safest and preferred response to a wildfire. A wildfire bunker like the FORT™ is intended only as a last-resort refuge when evacuation is not possible due to blocked routes or rapidly changing conditions.
A fire shelter should only be used if evacuation is no longer possible and local authorities cannot be reached. It is not a substitute for evacuation planning, early action, or following official evacuation orders.
During a wildfire, a home fire shelter protects occupants by shielding them from extreme heat, flames, and smoke while providing breathable air for a limited duration. Occupants remain inside until external conditions are safe and it is possible to exit.
In many cases, yes, a wildfire bunker can be installed on residential property, subject to local zoning, permitting, and site conditions. Placement and installation should always follow professional guidance and local regulations.
You can reserve a FORT™ online with a refundable deposit to secure a place in the production schedule. A Wildfire Safety Systems representative will then contact you to discuss configuration options, site considerations, and delivery timing.
Design a FORT™ that fits your property and protection needs.