Carlsbad: Prevent Wildfires

Carlsbad CA

10 December, 2020

7:26 AM

Description

Press release from the City of Carlsbad: December 08, 2020 According to city Assistant Director of Emergency Services David Harrison, recent California wildfires, combined with the ongoing COVID public health emergency, have underscored the importance of both emergency preparedness and wildfire prevention. "Wildfires are a concern in Carlsbad given the amount of natural open spaces spread throughout the city, our dry climate and Santa Ana winds that are common in the fall," said Harrison. "We always want our community to be prepared, but prevention is the ultimate goal, now more than ever." According to the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, over 50% of wildfires are started by the general public. Many wildfires can be prevented or their spread limited by taking a few simple precautions: Monitor the weather report for red flag warnings and dry, windy conditions During these weather condition, DO NOT do any of the following things that could cause a spark or spontaneous fire to break out: Using power lawn mowers, edging equipment, chain saws and leaf blowers Setting a piece of hot gardening equipment in the brush Outdoor electrical work Using outdoor grinding or cutting tools/saws Outdoor grilling / barbecuing/ cooking Pulling a car over on an unpaved shoulder (unless an emergency) Parking a car on or near landscaping that could be dry and ignite Driving vehicles off road Use chains or trailer hitches that could touch the road and cause a spark Keep landscaping well maintained, removing dry brush. Now is the time to ensure defensible space. Special COVID preparedness tips In addition to creating a family emergency plan and having basic supplies on hand in case of an emergency, be prepared to wait longer at temporary evacuation points. Shelters must take special precautions to reduce COVID-19 spread and alternatives to traditional shelters may be needed. Residents should check with their homeowner or renters insurance to confirm "loss of use coverage" in case of immediate displacement. Ensure COVID-19 supplies (masks/sanitizer/disinfectant wipes) are in your emergency kit. Prepare for longer stays at temporary evacuation points by bringing: Blankets Folding chairs Lighting Packaged foods Water Beach umbrella or tent Sunscreen Games for kids Pet supplies Medications Laptop, MIFI, battery for remote telework Find out more information about how to be prepared for an emergency on the city's website. Related information www.readyforwildfire.org www.readysandiego.org Emergency preparedness guide More information David Harrison, assistant director of emergency services, 760-931-2137, [email protected] This press release was produced by the City of Carlsbad. The views expressed here are the author's own.