Wildfire Preparedness Week through May 11

On Saturday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a proclamation designating May 5
through May 11 as Wildfire Preparedness Week. The theme of preparedness
week is partnership.

In the proclamation, Newsom said, “CAL FIRE has also made significant
progress on fuels reduction and mitigation, with more than 105,500 acres
of fuels treatment last year. Fuels reduction projects are vital to
slowing and reducing the intensity of wildfires and provide areas from
which fire personnel can safely and aggressively suppress fires.
Developing and maintaining these vital projects across the state will
remain an ongoing focus to protect our communities.”

Newsom encouraged individuals to join the team and take greater
responsibility to lower the chances of wildfire and to prepare for it if
one were to approach their residence. The first step is ensuring that
defensible space is created and adequate around homes and nearby
structures as well as efforts to harden homes.

“During Wildfire Preparedness Week, I encourage all Californians to
visit ReadyForWildfire.org to learn about steps we can take to prepare
for wildfire season and help prevent loss of life and property.
Together, we can create a more fire resilient California,” he exerted
Californians at the conclusion of the proclamation.

Cal Fire’s website (https://www.fire.ca.gov/prepare) offers help for
preparing for wildfires and, possible need to evacuate, as well as
recommendations for hardening home from wildfire.

In the spirit of partnership, federal agencies — the U.S. Forest
Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of
Indian Affairs — also are participating in Wildfire Preparedness Week.
They are launching an online campaign focused on wildland fire safety
and prevention while recreating on public lands.

“As Californians, many of us have seen the impacts of wildfire close to
our homes. Remembering to think like a firefighter while we’re
recreating can help our time away from home be as relaxing and safe as
possible,” said Jaime Gamboa, fire director for the Forest Service’s
Pacific Southwest Region.