Stay Ready: Wildfire Preparedness In Los Alamos County

COUNTY NEWS RELEASE

Wildfire preparedness is a year-round responsibility. Don’t wait for a fire to threaten the community before taking action. Stay Ready, make a plan, and know what you will do when it is time to Set and Go.

Even during monsoon season, wildfire remains a possibility in Los Alamos County. This summer’s scattered storms have produced varying conditions, including significant localized rainfall as well as lightning with limited precipitation. These changing conditions are an important reminder that residents should remain prepared throughout the fire season.

Residents can take simple steps now to remain in the “Ready” stage of the Ready, Set, Go program:

  • Create and discuss an evacuation plan with your family.
  • Know multiple evacuation routes from your home and neighborhood.
  • Sign up for Everbridge to receive emergency notifications.
  • Stay informed about current weatherfire conditions, and nearby incidents.
  • Mitigate around your home by addressing vegetation, combustible materials, and other potential fire exposures.
  • Prepare emergency supplies and important documents so they are ready to go if an evacuation becomes necessary.

The Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) continues to prepare, train, and work with regional partners to protect Los Alamos County, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and surrounding communities. This summer, LAFD crews have assisted with wildfires throughout Northern New Mexico, including the Lodin Fire and the Frijoles Fire. During the Frijoles Fire, LAFD provided Brush 8 and personnel for overnight structure protection when fire activity increased near the community of Cundiyo.

LAFD also offers free home wildfire assessments to help residents identify vulnerabilities and practical steps to improve their home’s wildfire resilience. Additional wildfire preparedness and home protection resources are available through the Wildland Division web page on the Los Alamos County website.