Be Prepared, Not Scared: Essential Wildfire Safety Measures for Arcadia Residents

Wildfires are a significant concern in many California communities, and Arcadia is no exception. Recent discussions with the Arcadia Fire Department highlight crucial steps residents can take to protect themselves, their families, and their homes. This blog post summarizes key preparedness measures and essential insights shared by local experts.

Understanding Your Risk: Fire Hazard Severity Zones

Are you aware of your property's fire risk? The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) has developed Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) maps based on vegetation, terrain, weather patterns (like Santa Ana winds), and ember-casting potential. These zones are classified as Very High, High, or Moderate.

Arcadia is currently adopting updated FHSZ maps, with a tentative finalization by July. New legislation now mandates cities to adopt all fire severity zones—not just Very High. While some Very High areas have decreased, the overall mapped fire-prone area has expanded.

Where to View the Maps: Search "Cal Fire Fire Severity Maps" or visit calfire.ca.gov.

Proactive Preparedness: Your Key to Safety

Waiting for evacuation orders is too late. Prepare ahead with these critical steps:

1. Develop a Family Evacuation Plan:
Discuss escape routes, a designated meeting spot, and communication strategies. Include elderly or vulnerable neighbors in your plan.

2. Pack a “Go-Bag”:
Essential items include:

• Water and non-perishable food (72-hour supply)

• First-aid kit and medications

• Flashlight and radio (battery or crank-powered)

• IDs, documents, and cash

• Cell phone with chargers

• Pet food, carrier, and ID

• Personal hygiene supplies

• Tools (wrench, can opener)

• Comfort items (books, puzzles)

3. Create Defensible Space:

• Very High Zones: 100 feet clearance

• High Zones: Inspections required upon home sales

• Zone Zero: First five feet around the home should be non-combustible (e.g., gravel)
  Maintain property with regular clearing of dry vegetation and trimming of trees.

4. Harden Your Home:
Follow Chapter 7A of the California Building Code for fire-resistant upgrades:

• Ember-resistant vents

• Fire-resistant siding and roofing

5. Know Your Utilities:
Expect possible Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) during extreme conditions. Stay informed via Southern California Edison.

6. Plan for Communication Disruptions:
Cell service may fail. Have backups and listen for door-to-door evacuation notices from the Arcadia Police Department.

Stay Informed: Trusted Resources

• Alert Arcadia: Sign up for emergency alerts

• National Weather Service (NWS) Oxnard: Subscribe to weather warnings

• City of Arcadia Website & Social Media: Updates, wildfire plans, and fire department announcements

• CAL FIRE: calfire.ca.gov

• Watch Duty: Fire incident tracker (note: may not be real-time)

• Community Meetings: City-hosted events in May will discuss updated fire maps

Leverage Tech Tools

• MyShake App: Earthquake alerts, safety checklists, and planning tools

Strength in Community

Organize with neighbors for collective safety. The California Department of Insurance supports neighborhood preparedness programs. Help those who may have mobility challenges or limited resources.

Arcadia Fire Department Resources

They offer a wildfire preparedness booklet, available online and at local fire stations. Contact them with questions or for guidance.

Paramedic Membership Program

Arcadia’s unique membership program can cover ambulance fees not paid by insurance. Consider enrolling for peace of mind.

After the Fire: Don't Let Your Guard Down

Post-fire threats like debris flows and soil contamination are real. Continue monitoring weather and environmental conditions following a wildfire.

Be a Voice for Preparedness

Whether you’re a resident or a real estate agent, you can help others stay safe. Share this blog, hold local info sessions, or simply check in with neighbors. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient Arcadia.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and be safe.