What I cannot fathom is how the trees are so close yet not burnt from the radiant heat of the house fires. I spoke to my brother-in-law last night (30+ years as a fireman) and he estimated a 30 metre/100 foot distance between two inflammable object (trees or house) would be safe enough (depending on wind and assuming no embers) to prevent catching fire from radiant heat.
No way there is 30 metres between these houses and trees.