Burned Tree Removal

There is extensive, valuable printed and online material available for the process and safety issues around removing fire-damaged trees. Many hands, hearts, and heads make the massive job of burned tree removal a reality. Please note, there is considerable danger and liability in falling burned trees so it should be done only with professional consultation […]

Debris Flow Monitoring, Assessment, and Mitigation

Following a wildfire, managing and monitoring debris flow is essential. Wildfires dramatically alter the landscape, increasing the likelihood of debris flows. Debris flows are rapid movements of water, soil, rock, vegetation, and debris that can cause signifiant damage and even fatalities. Debris flows can be triggered with little warning, leaving communities vulnerable. These flows can […]

Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs)

Having a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) in place for each community is crucial for access to mitigation resources and identification of local needs, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to wildfire. Planning for fire before it happens allows communities to recover faster and stronger in the future. It is best practice that local community […]

Disaster Case Management

At the national level, it is widely recognized and understood that disastrous events in our communities create the need to address unmet needs in the long term. One proven way to do so is Disaster Case Management (DCM) programming. According to the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) manual, DCM is defined as: “a time-limited […]

Bank Stabilization

Bank stabilization is often necessary post wildfire. Without stabilization, compounding damages and safety considerations may arise. If assessments and identification of risks are not done post fire, often times infrastructure such as roadways and utilities can be lost. It is the job of all people to recognize the potential for possible slope damages post fire. […]

Fence Replacement

Key tips for pre- and post-fire fence maintenance and repair: Check your insurance policy. Are your fences covered in the event of wildfire? Fence replacement is costly. Understand that donors post-fire are less likely to fund private, non-agricultural fencing so be prepared for limited assistance. Fence replacement should be attempted as soon as is feasibly […]

Burrito Wrapping Wildfire Debris

“Burrito wrapping” is a method used to contain and transport asbestos-containing materials (ACM) to prevent the release of asbestos fibers during removal and disposal of debris. Wildfire debris was not required to be burrito wrapped until the 2020 fire season. Following the 2020 fires, it became common practice and, in most jurisdictions, a requirement of […]

Emergency Address Signage

Extensive signage is destroyed after a widespread wildfire. It is important that homeowners and community members replace signage post fire. Example: 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, […]