SJIFR News

Firewise Communities Fuel Reduction Program and Wildfire Community Preparedness Day Home Evaluations

The San Juan Island Fire Department is proud to announce the 2018 Firewise Communities fuel reduction program. The 2018 program, which runs from April 1 through May 31, is open to existing and newly formed Firewise Communities. 

The Department, supported in part by the national Firewise Communities program, will pay one half of the rental fee for a day’s use of a chipper from Harbor Rental. Residents of each community will be responsible for picking up and returning the chipper, its safe operation, and for fuel or other associated costs.

Maintaining a Firewise Community is a team effort. As many residents as possible should participate, as it makes the work much easier. Their effort, including number of participants and hours contributed, should be included in the Firewise Community’s annual renewal report. To schedule the use of a chipper, the Community’s Resident Leader should contact Department Firewise Specialist Jon Zerby at (360) 378-5419.

In addition to the chipper/fuel reduction program, our Firewise Specialists have set aside May 5th, Wildfire Community Preparedness Day, to offer free property evaluations. Using nationally recognized standards, they will assess the wildfire danger to your home and provide specific steps you may take to reduce the chance your home might catch fire in the event of a wildfire and to create a safer working environment for your firefighters.

To schedule a voluntary evaluation of your property on May 5th or for further information about Firewise Communities call Ron Garner at 360-378-7722.

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