Even here in northeastern California we now face a year-round wildfire threat. Wildfire Preparedness Week 2025, observed May 4th through the 10th, serves as a vital call to action for all Californians to take steps now to prepare and reduce wildfire risk at home and in our local communities.
Cal-FIRE and partners are intensifying their efforts to help communities prepare for the peak of the fire year through collaboration, innovation and public engagement.
This year’s theme — “Building a Fire-Ready Future: Strengthening Our Defenses, Together” — underscores the collective responsibility of individuals, communities, and agencies to prepare for and defend against wildfire threats. Cal-FIRE continues to lead proactive wildfire mitigation through strategic fuel reduction, forest health initiatives, and an expanded grant program supporting private landowners, Fire Safe Councils, and Firewise Communities.
Cal-FIRE Director and Fire Chief Joe Tyler said, “Building a fire-ready future means working together— by doing your part to protect your property through home hardening efforts, creating defensible space, and creating an emergency plan for your family, you are helping first responders protect lives, property, and natural resources.”
This Wildfire Preparedness Week, Californians are urged to:
- Create defensible space, focus on Zone 0, the first five feet around your home.
- Harden structures against flying embers with ignition resistant building materials.
- Develop and practice a wildfire action plan so you are prepared when wildfire strikes.
- Stay informed with emergency alerts
- Pack a ‘go bag’ and be ready to evacuate.
“Wildfire safety begins with being prepared,” said State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant.
“Protecting our homes and communities takes all of us – neighbors, local groups, and state agencies—working side by side to reduce risk and save lives.”
To learn more about wildfire safety and preparedness, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org. CAL FIRE encourages Californians to access the Ready for Wildfire web-based FirePLANNER that includes local alerts, checklists for preparedness, evacuation plans, and other kits. To download the free app, visit https://plan.readyforwildfire.org/.
