OSU Extension just revised their publication on fire resistant plants, so this is timely. Here is link to information about fire resistant plants and here is a list of fire-resistant ground covers. Hopefully you'll find something you like and matches your site there. For management I recommend starting the transition within your home ignition zone and then moving outward because doing the work closest to your home makes the most impact. since the ground is treacherous an herbicide to kill the grass in the spring might work the best before planting the ground covers in the fall when they will get lots of water and won't have to compete with grass roots. If herbicides aren't your style you can try scraping the top of the soil to remove the grass around the planting spots to decrease water competition.