AIG, Other Insurers Offer Fire-Prevention Aid

The product has a chemical reaction with plant matter so that instead of lighting up, it creates water vapor and carbon dioxide when fire touches it. Todd Triano, vice president of loss prevention at the Private Client Group, says the retardant saved "a number of homes" in the fires that spread last October.

Still, AIG only offers the service to high-net worth clients whose homes have a value of at least $1 million, meaning that many others will have to take action on their own. The service costs about $1,000 for each spray session, but can still be cheaper than the damage caused when a fire engulfs the entire home.

There are other preventive measures to be taken before spraying the home with fire retardant as well.

Triano says it's important to have a good irrigation system and to get rid of non-native plants that surround the home. The more hydrated the vegetation, and the more natural it is to the area, the less likely it will burn. Expanding the "defensible space" around the home - the area without vegetation - can also help if a fire is heading toward the residence.

Finally, Triano suggests removing any debris from the roof or property that could ignite - including items like patio furniture. It's also important to make sure that any vents are not susceptible to embers flying inside and sparking a blaze internally.

"Most people live in the reality of the threat of wildfires in [the West], so I think most people understand there is a threat," says Triano. "It's a question of what steps they are willing to take to prevent it."