The recent wildfires near Los Angeles have resulted in one of the most intense and complicated aerial firefighting efforts in U.S. history. Interviews with pilots have shed light on the extreme challenges they faced while trying to control their aircraft amidst the blinding smoke and burning hills. The scale and ferocity of the fires have been unprecedented, emphasizing the urgency of effective wildfire management and mitigation strategies. As communities affected by the wildfires aim to rebuild, they will require substantial support from both their neighbors and political leaders to ensure the safety and resilience of the reconstructed areas. The destruction of thousands of homes has prompted discussions about the factors that contributed to the survival of some structures. Experts attribute the survival of certain homes to a combination of factors such as timing, wind patterns, and modern architectural and landscaping approaches, pointing towards the importance of implementing resilient and fire-resistant design practices in areas prone to wildfires.