Mono County Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Wildfire Season to Safeguard Lives and Communities

MONO COUNTY, Calif. (AUGUST 17, 2023) – As wildfire season approaches, the Mono County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is committed to empowering individuals and communities with essential information and proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with wildfires.  This winter’s extreme weather has resulted in dramatic vegetation growth, further contributing to wildfire fuel concerns as the vegetation dries out.  With a strong focus on safety and preparedness, the Mono County OEM is launching a comprehensive campaign to ensure that residents are well-equipped to protect themselves, their families, and their homes.

Wildfires have become an increasing concern across the Eastern Sierra, posing significant threats to both rural and populated communities.  The upcoming wildfire season demands heightened awareness and preparation from all members of the community, especially as this winter’s extreme weather is expected to lead to increased vegetation and fuels.  To address this, the Mono County OEM is offering a series of guidelines and resources to help residents be proactive in safeguarding against the potential devastation caused by wildfires.

WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS TIPS

• Create Defensible Space: Clear vegetation and debris from at least 30 feet around your home.  This creates a buffer zone that can slow down or prevent the spread of wildfires.
• Maintain Roofs and Gutters: Regularly clean roofs and gutters of leaves, pine needles, and debris.  This reduces the risk of embers igniting your home.
• Develop an Emergency Plan: Work with your family to create a comprehensive emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, meeting points, and communication strategies.  Visit READY Mono (Ready.Mono.CA.Gov) for details.
• Know Your Zone: Visit READY Mono (Ready.Mono.CA.Gov) to identify your evacuation zone in Zonehaven.  Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and have alternate options in case roads are blocked.
• Assemble Emergency Kits: Prepare emergency kits with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and clothing for each family member.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for local emergency alerts via READY Mono (Ready.Mono.CA.Gov) and stay tuned to reliable news sources for wildfire updates.  Ensure your family knows how to receive and share information during an emergency.
• Enable Location Services: Enable location services on your phone to allow for localized emergency alerts and notifications.
• Practice Evacuations: Regularly conduct fire drills with your family to ensure everyone knows how to evacuate safely and efficiently.
• Protect Your Home: Use fire-resistant building materials and consider installing spark arresters on chimneys to reduce the risk of sparks igniting nearby structures.
• Collaborate with Neighbors: Work together with neighbors to create a cohesive wildfire preparedness plan that covers the entire community.
• Be Cautious with Fire: Avoid activities that could start a fire, such as outdoor burning on windy days or using equipment that generates sparks.

The Mono County OEM is also organizing a series of community workshops to provide training and expert insights on wildfire prevention and response.  The organization encourages residents to actively engage with these opportunities to enhance their understanding of wildfire risks and preparedness strategies.  These workshops will be held in various communities during the third and fourth weeks of September.

By taking proactive measures and embracing a culture of preparedness, communities can significantly reduce the impact of wildfires on lives and property.  As wildfire season approaches, the Mono County OEM remains dedicated to supporting individuals, families, and communities in their efforts to stay safe and resilient.

For more information about wildfire preparedness and upcoming events, please visit READY Mono (Ready.Mono.CA.Gov) or contact the Mono County OEM at (760) 924-4633.

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