Every year, devastating wildfires burn across the United States. In January, catastrophic wildfires gutted parts of Southern California. The Eaton and Palisades Fires destroyed homes and took lives. In Arizona, wildfires are burning hotter, with more intensity – and burning longer than in years past. There is no “fire season” here anymore. Fire season has evolved into a year-round concern. We must be proactive instead of reactive.
Across Arizona, more and more people continue to move into the Wildland Urban Interface or WUI. With the increase in WUI populations comes more human interactions and unfortunately, more human-caused wildfires. Taking preventative measures now, even in the smallest of ways, can often make the biggest impact when it comes to property protection.
The National Fire Protection Association’s Firewise USA program focuses on educating, engaging, and empowering homeowners to take recommended actions to increase the survivability of their home and neighborhoods from catastrophic wildfires. The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) is the lead agency and the state’s liaison to the national program. The success of the program heavily depends upon homeowner engagement and activity.
Start small within the Home Ignition Zone – the immediate zone around the structure, by removing dead or dying vegetation, sealing window gaps or loose roof tiles, and removing firewood, propane or any flammable materials away from the property. Then work outward to property boundary. If you want to learn more, join DFFM on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the Fountain Hills Community Center at 6 p.m. to hear more about the Firewise USA program and what you can do to safeguard your homes and your livelihoods.
Chris Reed is the Department of Forestry and Fire Management Prevention captain for the Central District. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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