wildfire
The City of Santa Rosa Fire Department officially declares today, June 6, 2022, as the start of this year’s wildfire season in Santa Rosa. Despite another round of late-season rains, recent fire activity and above-average temperature this week make the declaration necessary to help ensure the community is better prepared for an active fire season. Many residents have already taken proactive measures this season including the abatement of dry seasonal grasses and other vegetation management measures. Regrowth is likely, given yesterday’s rain, and plans should be made to address any regrowth which will likely create a fire hazard later this season.
Weed Abatement Inspections Triggered by Fire Season Start
By City ordinance, the Santa Rosa Fire Department will initiate annual weed abatement inspections following the official local declaration of Fire Season to ensure owners of required properties cut weeds and seasonal grasses that are over four inches in height and maintain this practice throughout the fire season. Properties required to take this measure include those within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), on all vacant lots across Santa Rosa (including those in fire rebuilding areas), or on developed properties with more than a half-acre of unimproved land. Learn more at srcity.org/WeedAbatement.
Preparing Households for Wildfire Season
The Fire Department is asking residents, especially those who live within or around the City’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) area, to keep their properties “Wildfire Ready” and ensure household emergency plans have been updated as needed. Visit srcity.org/ReadySR.
Residents can take the following actions to protect their properties AND prepare their households for a potential emergency:
· Maintain a ‘defensible space’ of at least 30 feet around the home; trim back trees, especially low hanging branches and branches near rooflines a distance of at least 10 feet.
· Clean the roof and the gutters of debris.
· Rake up and remove leaves from around your home and from under decks.
· Move woodpile and other combustible materials away from your home or deck.
· Inspect and repair exterior siding, including dry rot, gaps, cracks, and warping to protect your home from embers.
· Review emergency plans and evacuation procedures and discuss them with all household members.
· Take stock of emergency essentials like food and water and assess “Go Bag” needs such as clothing, medicine, and important documents.
For additional information and guidance on wildfire preparedness, view the Santa Rosa Fire Department’s Wildfire Ready online information center at srcity.org/WildfireReady.
