Marketplace®
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Jan 12, 2026

Building a home with future fires in mind

A year ago, many residents of Altadena lost their homes to the Eaton Fire that swept through the city. Marketplace's David Brancaccio was one of them. Rebuilding for him means making something that he hopes will survive future disasters.

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Building a home with future fires in mind
Mario Tama/Getty Images

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On Jan. 7, 2025, the Eaton and Palisades Fires began, killing 31 people and destroying around 13,00 homes in the Los Angeles area. A year later, residents are looking to rebuild the lives and homes they once had.

Marketplace’s David Branccacio and his wife lost their Altadena home to the Eaton fire, and have yet to break ground on a new building. But as they continue to plan for construction in the new year, they are focusing on fire-resistance for the future.

Branccacio joined “Marketplace Tech” host Meghan McCarty Carino to speak about the technology and building that goes into fire-resistant homes.

More on this

“In Altadena, attempting to rebuild for resilience” by Marketplace Morning Report

“After LA fires, struggles for the homes still standing” by Marketplace Morning Report

“Recovery remains slow for Eaton Fire survivors” by Marketplace Morning Report

“Finding a contractor one year after California's wildfires” by Marketplace Morning Report

The Team

Building a home with future fires in mind