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CSFA COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION
I’d like to say Fire Season is on its way, but the truth is, it never left. Wildfire threats are now a year-round reality, and they’ve already hit us hard. As we brace for the arrival of the infamous Santa Ana and Diablo winds, conditions are about to get even more dangerous.
These winds often called the “devil winds” have a long and devastating history of fueling some of Southern California’s largest and most destructive wildfires. Their dry, powerful gusts turn small sparks into raging infernos, and their timing couldn’t be worse.
Déjà Vu All Over Again
Over the past few months, resources have been deployed to Northern California, only to watch the fire threat shift south—literally. Fast-moving, deadly wildfires are now being reported daily, not just in California but across the western U.S. and even into the Midwest. I’m no meteorologist or rocket scientist, but it’s clear: something in our weather system is changing.
Wildfires Impact Everyone
No matter where you live, wildfires affect us all. When a major fire breaks out, resources are pulled from every city and county. That means stretched crews, delayed responses, and increased risk. Air quality plummets. Highways close. Schools cancel classes. Utilities get interrupted. And the cost to taxpayers climbs into the millions.
It’s Not Just the Fires
Santa Ana winds don’t just elevate fire danger, they wreak havoc in other ways too. They knock down power lines, topple trees, and disrupt utilities. Homes and businesses lose power. Traffic lights go dark. Visibility drops. Allergies flare. Eye irritation spikes. The ripple effects are real, and they’re widespread.
We must educate our communities and ensure they’re ready—not just for fire, but for everything these winds bring.
A Strained Workforce
Here’s the hard truth – many agencies are facing staffing shortages. Economic pressures have taken their toll. State and federal wildland teams are understaffed. Fire academies are seeing lower enrollment. The fire service job market isn’t what it used to be and that’s a problem we all feel.
So What’s the Solution?
Start with education. Start with preparation. Our communities are our greatest allies, and we need their help more than ever. You likely already have these resources and more, but it’s worth sharing again and widely.
Here are some links for your community
What is a Santa Ana binged.it/4n36OLm
Wildfire are you ready bit.ly/4bvqtgC
Distribute these through local media, PSAs, community events, senior centers, volunteer groups or anywhere you can. Whether you’re stationed in the city or the backcountry, wildfires and wind events affect us all.
Make a Stand. Prepare Your Community.
We all know the saying: “Fail to plan, plan to fail.” Let’s flip that script. Let’s lead with readiness, resilience, and responsibility.
Editor’s note: California State Firefighters Association is honored to help your agency with Community Risk Reduction articles for you to use for your agency’s social media, press releases to local media, cable tv, or presentations to community organizations etc. These articles are intended to reduce fires, accidents, and injuries by sharing these within your community. This week’s article is designated for Flashflood Safety during our summer monsoon months. This article and its content can be used at your discretion at any time you feel is appropriate for your community. Do you need other resources for Community Risk Reduction, or do you have questions on how to best use these resources? Feel free to contact [email protected]
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He is Director at Large with the California State Firefighters Association, Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com