Building a Fire-Resilient North State

Wildfire and its aftermath are rapidly becoming a part of everyday life in the western United States. The 2018 Carr and Camp fires, the 2020 August Complex fire and the 2024 Park fire have shown how quickly they can destroy homes and land. Many people understand that it’s not a question of if a wildfire will happen, but when.

Protect your home with defensible space

One of the best ways to help protect homes in the event of a wildfire is by creating and maintaining 100 feet of defensible space—a strategic buffer with less vegetation and flammable material to slow down fire. It is the first line of defense. Homeowners can also help harden their homes from wildfire by installing metal mesh on chimneys and eaves, replacing wood siding and roof with non-combustible material and installing multiple pane insulated glass windows. While it can be more expensive, home hardening is an invaluable second line of defense. But one prepared home is not enough. If a neighbor’s property is lacking these efforts, the fire risk increases for everyone. When neighbors work together, they create a safer, fire-adapted community.

North State community wildfire preparedness

Many North State counties have a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) to help reduce wildfire risks. These plans, oftentimes developed by Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) with input from local people and emergency officials, help communities plan for wildfire. After a CWPP is in place, ideally agencies and groups like volunteer fire departments, Fire Safe Councils (FSCs), homeowners’ associations, FIREWISE USA groups and Prescribed Burn Associations help put the plan into action. In many cases, a CWPP is also needed to apply for grants that help pay for wildfire prevention. Many counties also have emergency and evacuation plans to help people know what to do when a fire starts. Check your county’s website for your local emergency and evacuation plan.

Some communities form Fire Safe Councils (FSCs) or join the FIREWISE USA program. FSCs are state-run programs that help communities assess wildfire risks and apply for grants. FIREWISE USA communities are nationally recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Being a FIREWISE USA community may help homeowners get or keep insurance. There are more than 20 FSCs and FIREWISE USA communities in the North State. To see how these programs compare, visit the RCD of Tehama County’s website tehamacountyrcd.org.

Fire-Adapted Communities (FAC) is another federal initiative that is based on a community inspired fire resilience framework and encompasses the Fire Adapted Learning Network, a national peer learning and professional development organization.

TinderSmart Tehama reduces wildfire risks

Fortunately, each county in this region has an RCD that, among many natural resource supportive services, helps get funding to reduce wildfire risks and improve forest health. Since 2018, the RCD of Tehama County’s TinderSmart Tehama program has helped landowners with defensible space, large hazard tree removal and roadside fuel breaks. These projects reduce wildfire risks and make roads safer for firefighters and families during an evacuation.

The short film “Manton’s TinderSmart Tehama” is a warm-hearted film showcasing the rural foothill town of Manton and the dedicated locals who embrace wildfire readiness as a way of life. A special screening will be held at the Wild and Scenic Film Festival On-Tour Red Bluff, Saturday, March 29 at the State Theatre. Tickets are on sale now, details available at bit.ly/WSFF-RB25. The film will also be available online at the RCD of Tehama County’s website after the event.

Preparing for wildfires takes individual action and teamwork. Contact your local Fire Department, Fire Safe Council, FIREWISE USA group or RCD to get involved. Whether you create defensible space, attend meetings or help your neighbor address hazardous vegetation, every effort counts. Together, we can build a fire-resilient North State.