Help save lives by sharing important information.
A staggering 95%-97% of California wildfires are caused by people.
Fortunately, fire-smart people like you can change those numbers for the better. It’s up to each of us to spread the word about defensible space and prevention practices so our communities are better protected against wildfire.
Our challenge to you: add wildfire preparation advocacy to your New Year’s resolutions.
Be the hero your community needs
Here are a few ways to lead by example in the new year when it comes to wildfire preparation:
- Get burn permits when appropriate and be smart about burning debris on your property. Tell your neighbors where to get their own permits.
- Don’t leave campfires unattended or smoldering.
- Secure the chains on your trailer hitch—letting them drag causes dangerous sparks.
- Don’t throw cigarettes out the window of your car or home (or make “quit smoking” your other New Year’s resolution!).
- Cut down your dead trees to reduce wildfire fuel.
- Maintain and clear your defensible space.
- Consider alternatives to flammable New Year’s fireworks.
- Don’t leave candles burning unattended.
- Exercise caution with tools like mowers and chainsaws that generate heat and sparks.
Build a wildfire preparation reputation
This last one may be the most difficult wildfire preparation resolution of all: talk to people about fire safety. Don’t assume everyone reads Be Ready, Butte! like you! And don’t give up if your neighbors are resistant at first—you’re making a difference, whether you realize it or not. It takes a village to protect our communities, and it starts with each of us.