As fire season intensifies across Northern California, Folsom residents convened Tuesday morning at the Rotary Clubhouse in Lew Howard Park for a vital Wildfire Prevention Open House hosted by the City of Folsom.
The event provided hands-on resources and expert guidance to help the community prepare for the escalating threat of wildfires. With peak fire months approaching, the open house emphasized practical steps homeowners and families can take now—before emergencies strike. Booths and demonstrations throughout the clubhouse and surrounding area offered tips on creating defensible space, developing evacuation plans, assembling emergency “Go Bags,” and hardening homes against wildfire threats.
City officials and emergency personnel were present to answer questions and provide real-world advice, while outside, Folsom’s popular grazing goats highlighted the city’s natural approach to weed abatement. Fire trucks and emergency response equipment were also on display, giving residents a closer look at the tools used to protect the community during wildfire incidents.
Topics also included safe tree maintenance, hazardous and green waste disposal, water conservation, and how to stay connected through emergency alert systems. Children and adults alike had the opportunity to meet first responders and explore fire safety up close.
The open house was part of the city’s ongoing commitment to wildfire readiness, aiming to empower residents with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe.Those who couldn’t attend can still find wildfire preparedness resources on the City of Folsom’s official website at www.folsom.ca.us.
Preparing for Wildfire
The City of Folsom encourages residents to adopt a three-step approach to wildfire preparedness: Ready, Set, and Go.
The first step, “Ready,” focuses on home hardening and creating defensible space. Residents are urged to protect their homes from embers and radiant heat by installing non-flammable screens over vents and chimneys, sealing gaps under roof tiles, and using fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding. To establish defensible space, homeowners should remove flammable vegetation, debris, and combustible materials from around their properties. Incorporating fire-resistant plants and landscaping materials is also advised to reduce the risk of ignition.
The “Set” phase involves preparing families and emergency supplies. Creating a detailed wildfire action plan is essential—this includes outlining evacuation routes, listing emergency contacts, and ensuring all family members understand the plan. Signing up for local emergency alerts ensures residents receive timely updates in the event of a fire. Residents are also encouraged to assemble emergency “Go Bags” that include water, non-perishable food, medications, copies of important documents, and clothing for each family member.
Finally, the “Go” step emphasizes evacuation readiness and safe departure. Residents should be prepared to evacuate immediately when instructed by authorities. If time permits before leaving, individuals should shut off gas and propane lines, close all windows and doors, and move flammable furniture away from windows. It’s equally important to plan ahead for the evacuation of pets and livestock, including securing transportation and shelter arrangements.
For more detailed information and resources on wildfire preparedness, visit the City of Folsom’s official website at www.folsom.ca.us.
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