Recognizing May as Wildfire Awareness Month, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) emphasized the important role all Californians play in keeping themselves and loved ones safe.
WILDFIRE AWARENESS MONTH KICK-OFF
To kick off Wildfire Awareness Month, Cal OES announced the Barona and Viejas Fire Departments as participants of the California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System.
In particular, Cal OES assigned a Type III fire engine to the Barona Fire Department, increasing their capability to respond to local and statewide incidents. Cal OES also assigned a Type VI fire engine to the Viejas Fire Department, bolstering their ability to keep surrounding communities safe.
During times of disaster, these engines may be called upon to preposition ahead of or respond to emergency incidents statewide.
STATEWIDE TOUR
In collaboration with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Cal OES toured the state during Wildfire Preparedness Week (May 5-11) to talk about the challenges California faces when it comes to wildfire and steps individuals and families can take to be better prepared at home.
Wildfire Preparedness Week stops included:
- Sacramento County
- San Mateo County
- San Luis Obispo County
- Orange County
During each stop, local, state and federal partners spoke on county-specific work being done to better protect vulnerable communities from wildfire.
Cal OES personnel spoke at each event, emphasizing the importance of preparing for wildfire before the next event takes place.
WILDFIRE AWARENESS MONTH WRAP-UP
To wrap up the month, Cal OES announced the addition of another Tribal Government to the California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System.
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and San Manuel Fire Department add to the already robust California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System. Assigned a Type III vehicle, the San Manuel Fire Department increases their capability to respond to local and statewide incidents.
KEEPING LOVED ONES SAFE
All Californians play a role in keeping themselves and loved ones safe from wildfire.
- Sign up for alerts through your county.
- Pack a go-bag with essential items for each member of your family and don’t forget your pets!
- Learn two ways out of your neighborhood in case you need to evacuate quickly.
- Check in on loved ones and neighbors who may need additional help.
As the state continues to recognize May as Wildfire Awareness Month, Cal OES is local, state and federal partners to keep Californians safe.
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