While wildfire is not a great threat during the winter months, fire is still an important thing to consider in your home. A statistic from the National Fire Protection Association states "from 2018–2022 there was an average of 835 home structure fires that began with decorations per year" which includes holiday decorations like Christmas lights. During this time of year, it is good to pay attention to your decorations along with added fire hazards inside your home. Watching your outlets, monitoring candles when lit, unplugging cords when they are not in use, and making sure there is no flammable debris on or around space heaters can make a big difference! This is also a good time to check your fire alarms and ensure they are working properly.
FAC Updates
The Fire Adapted Communities Program slows down in the winter season as there are less events and neighborhood workdays to attend. We are gearing up for the Spring and have been coordinating a 'High School Ambassador Program' that connects local students with neighborhood leaders requiring extra help with various activities. There are currently student volunteers signed up on both the south and northwest shores! We have also been working on updating information on our websitetahoelivingwithfire.organd have been connecting with groups like Realtor Associations to involve them in the FAC program.
Realtor Board Meeting
Ambassador Program talk at North Tahoe High School
Fire Adapted Communities
Did You Know?
If you are adjacent to a Forest Service lot, there is a community stewardship agreement in place that allows homeowners to conduct low-impact defensible space treatments on any portion of National Forest System land within 100 feet of their building footprint. These activities include removing pine needle and surface litter, pruning trees, and removing brush. See the article information linked below to learn more about this process and who to contact. You can also view posts on our social media channels showcasing the work that the California Tahoe Conservancy does on urban lots!
Firewise Renewal Workshops- early in the new year 2025 TBD
Leader Meetings- early in the new year 2025 TBD
Fire Adapted Nevada Summit- March 17-18, at the University of Nevada Reno. For more information and to register use this link
Community Involvement
Building on our connections and existing relationships to make a big difference:
Get an early start and plan your neighborhood events for the Spring!
Watch the recording of our recent Firewise webinar to review the Firewise application process in detail. This is helpful if you plan to apply to become Firewise USA certified in the near future.
Contact Michelle for more information on any of the above or Firewise: mmclean@tahoercd.org or (530) 543- 1501 ext 114
