“Be prepared in advance” is a preachy old saying that is easily ignored and readily forgotten. But the drought and dry conditions now facing Southwest Colorado bring urgent meaning to that phrase.
Anyone who’s lived in the Rockies for a while knows that weather conditions can change suddenly and flip drought conditions. Big spring snowstorms have always been the delight of skiers and water managers. Unfortunately, this year, even several major spring storms won’t cure our tinder-dry conditions. Wildfire danger is high and emergency management officials throughout Colorado, and indeed the West, are on edge.
Given these grave circumstances, now is the time for full public engagement regarding all aspects of wildfire issues. While designated government officials from local, state and federal agencies are tuned in, most of the residents of our region are guided only by the dry brown landscape that we see and the question of “What if?”
Wildfire preparedness falls into two major categories: what individuals do to prepare, and what government agencies are doing.
Government
We are not aware of any large-scale coordinated effort or organizational meetings of local and regional officials to discuss the situation. During past fire incidents, local and federal agencies worked well together.
This year, however, the public needs to know early about resource planning in the event of a major fire. Are local fire districts getting together for joint planning? Do local emergency managers understand preparations being made by the U.S. Forest Service? Is the Colorado State Forest Service talking to other regional agencies and property owners? Are city and county officials meeting? Are ideas being exchanged on how to protect critical infrastructure such as reservoirs, water and sewer lines, electricity, health facilities, cell towers? Do tourism officials have a plan to inform visitors of fire danger?
These are, of course, extremely formidable, time-consuming tasks. But now is the time for local officials to take early, strong and proactive leadership roles.
Besides coordination efforts, government officials should convene public meetings throughout the region to inform residents about planning efforts. The public deserves to know what preparations are being made – and must also hear an explanation of what's expected of them.
Each of us
Wildland fires start in many ways, but all too often flames are ignited by the careless actions of humans: a campfire left smoldering, a cigarette thrown from a window, trailer chains dragging and scattering sparks, power tools poorly adjusted or mishandled.
Fires don’t only start in forests. They start in backyards, in fields of dry brush and grass, or along a country road. All of us must take responsibility and exercise extreme care outdoors.
Property owners and homeowners’ associations should create defensible spaces around structures. Learn how by following the guidelines provided at the La Plata County Emergency Management webpage. You can also consult with one of the many fire mitigation companies that can explain property vulnerabilities and provide fire-wise solutions.
For families and individuals, make copies or stash important documents in fireproof safes or your bank’s safety deposit box. These include passwords, property titles, insurance papers, vehicle papers, bank and investment documentation, and family photos.
Take photos or video of valuable possessions – furniture, musical instruments, sports equipment, clothing, kitchen gear. If the worst happens, you’ll have proof of ownership.
So, in the meantime, let us keep the faith that snow and moisture will return – and please, no complaining about spring snowstorms!
Guest commentary by Joe Lewandowski, a Colorado resident since 1977 who spent 20 years as a journalist for local newspapers and 16 years as public information officer for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Lewandowski served on the Herald’s 2017-18 Editorial Advisory Board. Ellen Stein returns Feb. 27.
