Mill Valley Fire Chief Urges Preparedness in Wake of Calif. Wildfires

Mill Valley, CA — Mill Valley fire Chief Tom Welch urged the local community Wednesday to take preparedness actions now so they are ready if disaster strikes closer to home.

"The recent Erskine Fire near Lake Isabella burned 58 square miles and consumed over 200 residential homes," Welch said. "Two lives were lost, with authorities warning that the death toll could rise. This unfolding disaster serves as a warning to our residents who live in areas adjacent to and surrounded by wildlands and are at risk for wildfires."

The City of Mill Valley Fire Department and Emergency Preparedness Commission encourage residents to be prepared, have a plan and learn ways to help their neighborhood and community in the event of a disaster, according to Welch.

Residents are urged to take the following wildfire preparedness steps:

• Clear vegetation from your property; 30 to 100 feet from your home, 10 feet along your driveway and 10 feet from property lines
• Clean debris from rain gutters, eves and roof lines.
• Know multiple ways from your home and neighborhood to the major roadways in town.
• Have an evacuation plan that includes a "Go Bag" and other evacuation materials.
• Know your neighbors and develop a plan to assist them if needed.
• Evacuate when authorities advise.
• Have five days worth of supplies on hand, including food, water and medications.
• If you see an unsafe act like fireworks, say something. Call 911 to report any fireworks activity or unsafe acts.

Welch also urged residents to get informed and get involved. The City of Mill Valley Emergency Preparedness Commission offers frequent public education classes such as Community Emergency Response Team training and Get Ready, he said.

"Mill Valley's Emergency Preparedness Commission provides an important role in assisting the city of Mill Valley to prepare our businesses, residents and schools for a natural disaster by developing risk awareness, providing safety and risk mitigation education and by advocating the need for ongoing emergency and disaster preparedness," Welch said.

Members focus on organizing community groups, including residential neighborhood associations, schools and businesses. They promote Community Emergency Response Training and work to help educate residents on ways to be self-sufficient during a disaster, he said.

"I would like to personally thank fire and police personnel, volunteer firefighters, city staff, the Emergency Preparedness Commission and members of the community for their roles in emergency preparedness," Welch said. "If you have any questions regarding emergency preparedness, first aid and city services, please call the Mill Valley Fire Department at 415-389-4130."

(Photo/Kern County Fire Department via Facebook)