August 2025 Newsletter

Hello Neighbors…

 

This month (and through October) our newsletter focus is on situational awareness. As of this writing we still haven’t had a triple-digit day, but it’s definitely hot and dry out there, and we are just getting into prime fire season.

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Over the past few months we’ve covered just about everything you need to know about being ready during fire season, so with that in mind, a lot of the content this month is reminders.

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The key to staying safe is to stay aware of weather conditions, know where to get accurate information, and not get complacent about your preparations.

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Remember, 95 percent of wildfires are human caused, so let’s be careful out there. Here’s an interesting article in CalMatters about some of the little ways that people have started big fires.

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News and Reminders…

​Here are a few reminders of evacuation-related topics we’ve covered in the last couple of months:

• Keep your go bags ready (and make sure any medications are current). Also make sure you have a phone charger in your go bag or car.

• Always keep your gas tank at least half full (or your electric car fully charged).

• Know your evacuation zone.

• Make sure you’re signed up for CodeRed alerts.

• Review your evacuation plan. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes (including “back door” ones that may cross neighboring properties).

• Be extra cautious on Red Flag Days.

• Consult multiple information sources.

• Leaving early increases your chance of survival.

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Zone Zero (Immediate Zone) Maintenance

Don’t forget to keep an eye on “Zone Zero”—the area of defensible space within five feet of your structures. Windy days can bring debris into gutters, roof valleys, under decks or stairs, and next to your foundation. Check these areas regularly and keep them clear of flammable material to protect your home and other structures.

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If You Are Trapped

We will continue to remind you to leave early in a dangerous situation—definitely if you receive an evacuation order, but even with an evacuation warning or before if you feel unsafe. The more people who leave early, the less crowded Greenhorn Road, our single paved way out, will be.

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However, there is always the possibility of being trapped—in your home, in your car, or on foot. This CALFIRE slide show details what to do in each situation. Get familiar with it ahead of time so you have the right resources with you and are less likely to panic.

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Wildfire Smoke

We’ve been lucky so far this year (knock on wood) with very few smoky days. The California Air Resources Board has a great website with information about how wildfire smoke can affect your health, how you can protect yourself and your children (including DIY home air filters), and how to get information about air quality when you see smoky skies.