When you picture a wildfire, does it look like towering flames racing toward homes and neighborhoods?

The reality is a lot more subtle, and even scarier.

For many homes, all it takes is a small, wind-blown ember to ignite a house fire. These burning pieces of debris can travel miles ahead of a wildfire, landing in gutters, flower beds and under decks before starting a fire.

Which is why the most important place to fire-proof is the first five feet around your home. That's where embers are most likely to ignite combustible materials.

Start here first

Remove dry leaves, dead plants, wood piles and even flammable furniture from this area. If you have bark or rubber mulch, consider replacing it with gravel, concrete or pavers, which are much less likely to burn.

(MORE: Lessons learned from a lone, unscarred Lahaina home)

Next, take a close look at your home's exterior.

Clean leaves and pine needles out of gutters, where embers can easily collect.

Cover attic and foundation vents with metal mesh to help keep embers out, and seal gaps in siding where heat and sparks could enter.

Check your yard

Your yard also plays a big role in slowing a wildfire. Keep grass mowed to no more than four inches tall, prune the lower branches of trees six to 10 feet above the ground, and space shrubs at least 15 feet apart. These steps make it harder for flames to spread from the ground into tree canopies or across your property.

(MORE: Here’s how fast a wildfire can spread)

Last but not least

Finally, prepare for the possibility of a fast-moving fire. Make sure garden hoses can reach every side of your home, and pre-fill large containers with water if time allows.

Keep your driveway clear, and make sure gates open easily and are wide enough for emergency vehicles.

Wildfires are driven by weather conditions like heat, low humidity and strong winds, but reducing the fuel around your home can make a meaningful difference. Taking a few hours now to create defensible space could help improve your home's chances of surviving the next wildfire.