Let’s not add fuel to the fires

Re “Building by the Numbers” [Nov. 15]: I think it’s about time, in view of the continuing droughts, to start building homes that won’t burn, e.g., rammed earth, for one type. Of course, everything burns if it gets hot enough. Building homes using flammable materials, like wood and, presumably, SIPs [structural insulated panels], does not make sense in dry climates such as those of Southern California and Arizona.

The conventional stick house built in California will ignite when surrounded by fire. Homes built using natural materials such as stone will be more burn-resistant.

David E. Kelly via e-mail