Malibu has seen its share of dangerous wildfires over the years, with homes and businesses destroyed in the process. But with All Risk Shield, preventative measures on homes and other properties can be taken before disaster strikes.
Cody Shirk, president and co-founder of All Risk Shield, saw a gap in the market and decided to open All Risk Shield in 2012.
“There were lots of homeowners looking for help to protect their homes and properties from wildfires,” Shirk said. “There really is no business out there that provides our services and there are even fewer people who are actually experienced and qualified.”
All Risk Shield focuses on three main services:
1. Applying fire retardant pretreatments
2. Performing wildfire inspections so homeowners can identify what risks their property faces. Once the inspection is done, All Risk Shield can send the report to insurance companies. The report typically contains recommendations on making the property safer against fires. By following those recommendations, homeowners could lower their insurance premiums.
“Many insurance companies are hesitant to insure homes in high fire risk areas,” Shirk said. “If we can make a report that really explains that the house is in fact safe, the insurance company is more likely to insure the prospective house.”
3. Providing a plan for residents who don’t know what to do in case of a wildfire. The business teaches a multitude of tricks, from evacuation to leaving your house defendable against fires.
Shirk began working in the emergency services field at age 16. He is a professional firefighter in LA and has diversified his specialties as a hazardous materials specialist, fire inspector and arson investigator.
“Most fire departments provide services for ‘all risks,’” Shirk said. “I felt that while fire departments do a great job, there are many similar non-emergency services that I could provide. Everything from CPR training to wildfire safety. We still do provide other services that have to do with preparing yourself in case of an emergency.”
“Most residents have been through their fair share of fires and many have learned the hard way on how to prepare. I can’t recommend enough to at least consider what your plan would be; and if you are a homeowner, how is your house protected?” Shirk said.
Shirk is a third-generation Malibu resident and currently lives in Malibu Canyon with his wife.
“Because I have lived in Malibu my whole life, I literally know every street,” Shirk said. “My familiarity with the area, my experience with wildfires in Malibu and my profession as a firefighter allow me to really set myself apart in this business.”
All Risk Shield’s wildfire services has quickly gained recognition and success. With help from his business partner, Shirk is expanding his business and is currently working on opening franchises in San Luis Obispo and San Diego.
For more information on All Risk Shield, visit allriskshield.com