Wildfire Response

Updated 6-19-25

Building with Resilience Makes Case for Non-Combustible Building Materials as California Rebuilds from Wildfires

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--Californians are faced with a number of choices and challenges as they evaluate rebuilding following recent wildfires, and a campaign launched today provides resources and insights on the best path forward. Building With Resilience shows how non-combustible construction materials not only enhance fire safety but can lower insurance costs and help reach ambitious climate targets—materials produced locally and readily available here in California.

The campaign makes the case for why incentivizing and investing in fire-resistant, non-combustible building materials is the most cost-effective and sustainable way to rebuild in fire-damaged areas while protecting community safety.

“People have learned for thousands of years that you can never truly fireproof our built environment. And yet we know owners, designers, and builders are still having to make choices each day about non-combustible materials used in construction and infrastructure development. This initiative will help make clear there is an absolute standard for fire resilience,” said Robert Dugan, President and CEO of CalCIMA. “We’ll convene the world’s leading experts with a focus on how we can prioritize the use of concrete, masonry, metal, stone, fiber-cement, and asphalt readily available here in California today and in ways that meet the state’s ambitious environmental and climate goals. This matters not only for housing but for community infrastructure, especially roads and water which are critical during fire events. We know the structural and sustainable arguments for concrete homes and infrastructure are being made. There are companies in-market today delivering–but we need local governments to prioritize codes and ordinances that ensure a smooth path to non-combustible construction. We expect this initiative to help local leaders prioritize where they can act today.”

“California is at a turning point where we can and must build better than before. We can no longer tolerate homes and communities being destroyed by fires by rebuilding in ways that we know aren’t safe. Let’s build our future with safer structures by using materials that don’t burn, rot, or rust. This will minimize damage and speed up recovery for those of us that will inevitably face future fire threats,” said Tom Tietz, Executive Director of the California Nevada Cement Association.

“We know there are debates, trade-offs, and intense conversations happening on these topics—especially among lawmakers, insurance experts, and building code officials—but we simply must prioritize the ways communities can withstand changing climate patterns and natural disasters,” said Shamim Rashid-Sumar, Senior Vice President, Codes and Standards and fire building codes expert with NRMCA. “We believe showing why building with non-combustible materials is the best overall path forward given all the natural disasters and emergencies we must prepare for is an issue worth championing.”

The Building With Resilience effort will engage lawmakers, communities, and citizens to increase awareness and education, and consolidate resources for experts seeking information on the highest levels of structural durability, strategies for slowing wildfire spread, and increasing building sustainably. The initiative’s mission also includes fostering cross-sector collaboration that advances safer, more sustainable practices for building and rebuilding homes, commercial structures, and infrastructure.

Supporting our Communities During the Southern California Wildfires

As southern California braces for another week of devastating Santa Ana winds and wildfire, it is essential for us to come together to support those affected. We take immense pride in being an industry composed of dedicated individuals who have consistently stepped up to aid their neighbors in times of crisis. If you are looking for ways to contribute, we encourage you to consider organizations like the American Red Cross, which provides shelter, food, and clothing to those who have lost everything. Prioritizing the well-being of our community is paramount during times like these.

How You Can Help

When disaster strikes, the instinct to help is natural. With the ongoing threat, you may be wondering how to make the greatest impact. While there are many charities seeking contributions, manpower, and resources, it is vital to ensure your efforts go to reputable organizations. Unfortunately, moments of generosity can sometimes attract bad actors.

Here are some steps to verify a charity's credibility:

Visit the charity's official website to learn about its mission, programs, and financial transparency.
Look for a clear explanation of how donations are used
Use reputable charity ratings websites
Verify Tax-Exempt Status
Watch for Red Flags
1. Aggressive fundraising tactics
2. Lack of Transparency
3. Unclear Mission or Programs
Trust Your Instincts

One suggestion is to give to a tried and true organization like the American Red Cross - California Wildfires.

Online Donations to Redcross.org
Donate blood, redcrossblood.org

Other Ways to Help and Resources for Californians Impacted by the Los Angeles Fires

LAist.com Want to help fire victims? Here's what experts say does the most good and places seeking volunteers:

Los Angeles Times: Where you can volunteer to help those affected by L.A.'s fires

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation: LAFD Wildfire Emergency Funding Alert

New York Times: How to Help Victims of the Southern California Wildfires

CA.Gov: Essential Resources and Information

Governor Gavin Newsom: Governor Newsom mobilizes L.A. Debris removal teams to begin work immediately once cleared for safety

California continues to help individuals in regions impacted by Los Angeles fires access health care, food and water, and shelter

CalChamber: LA County Wildfires Claim Lives and Devastate Thousands of Homes in California

CalCIMA Member Stories

Holliday Rock Wildfire Relief: Facebook Post
A& A Ready Mixed Concrete, Inc. Donates $50,000 to Southern California Wildlife Relief

Member Requests: Share Your Wildfire Relief Efforts

We want to hear how you and your team are making a difference. Are you actively involved in relief efforts? Are your employees volunteering, or is your organization participating in a charity drive? Please click here to share your story and inspire others to join the cause.