Identifying Resources for Fighting Wildfires

By Maxine Sherard

Fighting Wildfires Involve Risk Factors,Location and Planning

Upon assignment of fire risk areas based on safety for lives and property, I would support the designation of fire-protection fees based on risks, similar to what the auto insurance does in assigning risk to its clients. Such fees could be used to purchase needed equipment, to train staff and firefighters, and to affect fire-prevention measures. Many of these wildfires start in the backcountry and advance to populated areas; therefore, both areas- backcountry and urban areas- need protection.

Aside from assigning appropriate fees, fire prevention must also include responsible brush control, undergrounding of power lines and building codes that suppress the spread of fires, while safeguarding the environment and protected habitats.