In many different natural disaster situations including wildfire, neighbors helping neighbors can be an extremely effective means of survival and resilience.  Skagit CD helps facilitate neighbors understanding wildfire risk and working together to be better prepared. This is done through providing presentations and resources to community groups and neighborhoods on wildfire risk in western Washington, and how to make home, landscapes, and communities safer.

One of the most effective tools for communities in addressing their wildfire risk is the NFPA Firewise USA® Program.  This is a national recognition program that provides communities a framework with which to understand and address their wildfire risk together.

Skagit CD helps lead communities through the Firewise USA® program process, including implementing wildfire risk reduction projects.

For more information on the Firewise USA® program, visit www.firewise.org 

There are currently 7 active Firewise Sites in Skagit County identified on the map below.  For an interactive map of Firewise Sites around the country, visit http://nfpa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/Viewer/index.html?appid=c4a788340df748f18d98d8363145bb67

These communities have all recognized their role in working together to be better prepared for wildfire and continue to engage in learning and adapting together.  They are part of a larger network of over 1500 sites around the country. 

 Butler Hill/Valley View

Cascade River Park - http://www.cascaderiverclub.com/

Chuckanut Ridge

Colony Mountain Community Club- https://colonymtcc.org/

Diobsud Creek Area

Jenkins Lane

Shelter Bay - https://shelterbaycommwa.pilera.com/

Ready, Set, Go! is a preparedness program that can help homeowners be better prepared during a wildfire.  It includes things like knowing what to include in a “go-bag”, having and following a neighborhood evacuation plan, knowing how to access proper communication and information during a wildfire. Skagit CD may be able to help facilitate different aspects of this program in partnership with the local fire department.  For more information on the Ready, Set, Go! program, visit https://www.wildlandfirersg.org/s/iafc2/about-20Y3m0000004EdyEAE?language=en_US

Interested in the Firewise USA® Program or a presentation on wildfire preparedness in your community?  Contact SCD’s Community Wildfire Resilience Coordinator at jcoe@whatcomcd.org or 360-526-2381 x106