September 6, 2019 — Temperatures are falling in the inland areas, and leaves are starting to loosen their grip on the trees. But fire season is not over. Local firesafe councils with neighborhood sub-groups have sprung up, to identify what needs to be done to reduce fire danger; how to evacuate in case of emergency; and who needs the most help.
Jeanne Wetzel-Chinn, chair of the Western Hills Firesafe Council, lives at the end of a steep driveway, within sight of the shaded fuel break. She talks about strategies to prevent fire, how to be ready to evacuate in a hurry, and an opportunity to have a good time at an upcoming fundraiser to help elderly and low-income neighbors pay for vegetation management. The fundraiser, which is also an opportunity to learn more about the firesafe council, is at Barra Winery in Redwood Valley on September 29th, from 4-7pm. The Back Porch Project, which just released a new album, will provide live music, food and drink will be plentiful, and there will also be a silent auction.
For more information about the Mendocino County Firesafe Council, which is the umbrella organization for neighborhood-specific groups and funding opportunities, you can call (707) 462-3662 or email firesafe@pacific.net.
To learn more about the Western Hills Firesafe Council, you can call Jeanne Wetzel-Chinn at (415) 672-1580 or email Jeanne@beingwithwolves.org.