Let's be part of the solution

 

Wildfire in the Santa Cruz Mountains:

I am learning to share in being part of the solution regarding wildfire.  Along with many members of our community, and church, I attended a joint presentation by fire-fighters and county representatives a couple of years ago.  I learned there is MUCH we can do, as residents of homes in rural areas, to reduce likelihood of severe damage in our homes and communities.

I also learned the importance of STARTING to make these changes.  Here are a few examples:

         -start with the first 5 feet around your home, and remove ALL flammables, including all plants and furniture.  I’ve learned this takes new thinking and imagining, and that starting is more important than doing it perfectly.

         -REDUCE other flammable items in the next 5-20 feet, all the way around your home.

         -Reduce further, in the spaces around these areas (20-100 feet).

         -Consider what changes you might make that can help neighbors to be safer.

         -Speak up, and follow through, about changes to make in our community.

I celebrate all who have been working on these important subjects at many levels of our church and community, including Larry Lopp and several other members of the Skyland Church and Fire Safe County Roads groups, folks in both counties, and the MNN (great articles this month!)

Let’s be part of the solution, and help around our homes.  Even small bits can really help.

Jan Swayne

Location: 25100 Skyland Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95033, USA

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