Better Standards Needed for Houses on Hillsides

* After past and recent fires, we should re-evaluate the way we are constructing our homes. It is apparent that homes such as wooden structures are not sufficient to withstand hillside fires and other catastrophes.

I would like to commend Mary Ellen Strote on her planning and determination on building her dream home (“Out of Harm’s Way,” Nov. 21). She defied the status quo and built her home of steel-reinforced concrete that survived the fire.

If people would demand or request better engineered standards for hillside homes instead of today’s homes that burn like matchsticks, many catastrophes would be averted.

Prevention is the key.

ELENA JANET

Glendale