Embers, Not Flames: Why Many Homes Ignite During Wildfires

Mercury Insurance shares practical steps homeowners can take during Wildfire Preparedness Month to reduce one of the most overlooked wildfire risks LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As communities across the country recognize Wildfire Preparedness Month, Mercury Insurance (NYSE/NYSE TX: MCY) is encouraging homeowners to focus on one of the leading causes of home ignition during wildfires: wind-driven embers. According to research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and CAL FIRE, embers can travel miles ahead of an active wildfire, landing on roofs, vents, decks, and other vulnerable areas long before flames ever reach a structure.