"Fire season" is upon us with a vengeance. Unfortunately, the long-term weather outlook does not give us much hope of relief any time soon. It is imperative for everyone in our community to do what they can to prepare for the possibility of vegetation fires and extended power outages. Here are some suggestions:
- Prepare your home to be as fire-resistant as possible. Please see Sonoma County's "Hardening for Resilience" information.
- Know Your Evacuation Zone.
- Maintain defensible space around your home. Be smart about performing clearance: Do not use power tools or mowers in dry vegetation and especially not on windy days. There may not be too many of them, but make the best of the occasional damp/foggy morning!
- Take advantage of Sonoma County's Chipper Program to help get rid of debris after doing vegetation clearance.
- Do all that you can to be informed about emergencies in your area.
- Be familiar with all of the routes out of your area.
The COVID-19 virus pandemic situtation continues to affect us even though vaccinations have provided great relief and increased safety. The community should know that your first responders continue to be prepared to respond to incidents involving COVID-19, and also are taking all measures possible to avoid contagion in order to continue to be able to respond for our community. You can help by getting vaccinated, staying informed, following the physical distancing and/or masking orders, and maintaining good hygiene practices. Please see additional information on our COVID-19 page.
Even though the outlook for another season of destructive wildfires is grim, if we are prepared we will get through this together.
Be Well,
- Fire Chief Bonnie Plakos
