We should all be worried as climate change results in more extreme weather patterns and events, like the 100 mph winds that fanned the fires in greater Los Angeles combined with drought, resulting in the evacuation of 1`79,000 people, at least 17 human deaths, and the destruction of more than 9,000 structures.

But worrying in a vacuum does nothing. Preparing, on the other hand, can help mitigate effects, improve resilience, speed up recovery, and facilitate better sleep.

BP Wildfire Page

The first thing to do is to visit our new wildfire page.

There you’ll learn about the Firewise Program, which helps homeowners create defensible space around their residences. You’ll also read about the island’s evacuation zones and find out which one you live in so that, when an evacuation warning or order is issued, you’ll know if it affects you. Finally, you’ll learn some ways to protect against inadvertently starting a fire in your own home.

PSE Wildfire Page

Your second stop should be the page of our partner PSE that’s hosted on our site. There you can learn about PSE’s Wildfire Mitigation and Response Program. You can also read about Public Safety Power Shutoffs and what to do during a shutoff if you have Medical Life Support Status.

BIFD Wildfire Page

Third, be sure to visit the Bainbridge Island Fire Department’s wildfire page. Here you will find a list of useful resources:

• Information about the Firewise Program

• The Bainbridge Island Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)

• Steps you can take toward wildfire mitigation and prevention

• The community Wildfire Response and Evacuation Plan

• A Wildfire Home Hazard Assessment checklist

• An article about understanding effective wildfire protection

• A 2019 BCB podcaston BIFD wildifire prevention tips

• Finally there’s a link to the City of Bainbridge Island tree regulations to answer the question “Can I cut trees on my property to mitigate the fire risk to my home and property?”