After the Carlton Complex Firestorm of 2014, it was determined that first responders were having trouble finding locations that they were responding to. This was due to the loss of landmarks, homes, previous signs and fences. This resulted in delayed response times and increased risks to people and property. Extensive signage is destroyed after a widespread wildfire. It is important that homeowners and community members replace signage post fire. In Okanogan and Chelan Counties, and many other counties across the state, Emergency Address signs for first responders is a requirement for new structures being built.
As an identified need, the Disaster Case Management program of the Carlton Complex Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) implemented a sign replacement program. The LTRG put forth an ask to their donor team (aka The Unmet Needs Roundtable) for the materials to make the signs. They reached out to local first responders to identify the color, type, and size they would prefer to see out in the community. Their team was already traveling the footprint of the wildfire, so it made sense to deliver “SIGNS to SAVE”. Since 2016, the Okanogan Co. LTRG has received hundreds of thanks you’s from community members for the support with this unmet need.
→ Learn more about Okanogan Co. LTRG’s “SIGNS to SAVE” Program
