Is our region prepared for a major brushfire? Can we avoid a crisis?

In recent years there have been wildfires and brush fires in Greenburgh and in the Hudson Valley. These brush fires have occurred during dry months and during periods of drought. Last year a brush fire resulted in the death of a resident of Orange County (see news12 link below) There are many wooded areas near residential homes in Greenburgh and in the River villages. Although climate in LA and in the north is different and the chances of a brush fire doing extensive damage is less likely in the NY area than in California – it’s possible that a worst-case scenario could occur –drought, heavy winds, fires in wooded areas close to residential neighborhoods.

Are we prepared? Can NY localities, Westchester, the state do anything differently to prepare for this kind of crisis? Should there be a required annual preparation assessment of every locality with recommendations?

Leaders and residents in LA thought a worst case scenario wouldn’t happen and it did.

NY POST ARTICLE-how one resident saved their home using knowledge from time he was in Afghanistan

This is one good suggestion that residents could benefit from. There may be others…

https://nypost.com/2025/01/12/us-news/heres-how-an-afghanistan-veteran-used-his-previous-wildfire-season-experiences-to-save-his-home-from-the-la-fire/

Fire resistant materials could be required when construction takes place near high risk areas. Local governments should review existing vegetation management. We could focus on education including highlighting the importance of avoiding burning debris on windy days and being careful when throwing out cigarettes and other inflammable materials. There are probably many other suggestions that could reduce a repeat of the LA tragedy.

NEWS12 story link:

https://westchester.news12.com/hudson-valley-official-shares-ideas-on-preventing-wildfires-in-wake-of-las-tragedy

I am reaching out to other officials and will ask that they consider the suggestion for a required assessment of our planning for a worst case scenario.

PAUL FEINER

Greenburgh Town Supervisor