City News
5 ways to be wildfire safe

With several significant wildfires sparking in our area already, it is clear conditions are ripe for dried out fuels to catch easily and for fires to spread quickly. 

Here’s are 5 ways to help us all stay safe from dangerous wildfires. 

Watch the weather 
The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings on days that pose particularly high fire danger due to high winds and dry conditions. Residents are urged to use extreme caution on these days and consider postponing any outdoor activities that could spark a fire like barbecuing, target shooting, or using heavy equipment. Residents should never discard cigarette butts outdoors and in these conditions it is extremely reckless. 

Protect your property 
Create a defensible area around you home by clearing away any vegetation and flammable materials, cleaning out gutters, and pruning low-hanging tree branches. Open burns are not allowed in the City of Sierra Vista but the City offers free curbside green waste pickups for its refuse customers. 

Be ready before it’s time to go 
Cochise County follows the nationwide Ready, Set, Go! Program. Now is the time to be ready not just by protecting your property. It’s important to have a family evacuation plan in place with vital documents and supplies prepared in case of evacuation. This includes communicating the plan with children in the household and ensuring you have adequate pet carriers and food at the ready.
 
Sign up for emergency alerts 
When a wildfire is threatening your area, follow the local news and alerts put out by local governments to get the latest information. The best way to ensure you do not miss an emergency notification is to sign up for emergency alerts from Cochise County. Based on your preference, you can receive alerts via text, email, pager, or voice call. Sign up for Cochise County alerts today! 

Heed restrictions 
Please heed local restrictions against open burning in Sierra Vista and any restrictions that may in place at outdoor recreational facilities and campgrounds. In Coronado National Forest, Stage II restrictions are currently in place.