Over the past decade, the US has witnessed a steady increase in wildfire activity. There are nearly 45 million homes in areas prone to wildfire today and wildfire risk is nearly present in every state. Experts predict this trend will remain. Despite billions of dollars to support wildland fire suppression efforts, the number of homes lost in wildfires per year has increased by 163% and wildfires now cost the US billions of dollars a year in losses.
On 2 February, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) will discuss Wildfire Community Preparedness Day 2022 (Preparedness Day), a national annual campaign that encourages people and organizations to come together on the first Saturday in May to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks.
The website, nfpa.org/wildfireprepday, project ideas and free available resources will be highlighted during the live event. Wildfire Community Preparedness Day will take place on Saturday, 7 May 2022.
When: Wednesday, 2 February at 1:00pm (ET)
Where: NFPA Facebook Page
Participants:
Michele Steinberg, Director, NFPA Wildfire Division
Daniel Berlant, Auburn (CA) City Councilman
Background
Years of scientific research support the prescription of removing fuel sources from the area around the home – known as the ‘home ignition zone’ – and is a key component to making a home safe from embers and radiant heat from wildfires. Simple, low-cost home improvement projects such as clearing dead leaves, debris and pine needles from roofs and gutters, keeping lawns and native grasses mowed to a height of four inches, removing anything stored underneath decks or porches that could burn and other similar actions are being actively supported by NFPA and State Farm on Preparedness Day and can be easily undertaken by the majority of homeowners.
Since 2014, community groups and individuals have taken part in the campaign, completing hundreds of wildfire safety projects across the United States. Preparedness Day is supported by a Good Neighbor Grant from State Farm and gives people of all ages a chance to plan and participate in a risk reduction or wildfire preparedness activity that makes their homes and community a safer place to live.
For more information about Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, please visit www.wildfireprepday.org
