Douglas County readies residents for fire season
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Colorado is heading into what officials warn could be an active fire season, with up to 9,000 wildfires expected this year.
Why it matters: In Douglas County, that means creating evacuation and mitigation plans, coordinating with neighbors, and signing up for emergency alerts now.
Threat level: Low snowpack is elevating wildfire risk across Colorado, with 97% of the state experiencing moderate or severe drought conditions.
- The Douglas County Sheriff's Office says this week's storm may deliver only about 2 inches of liquid water, leaving the county roughly 11 inches below average.
- "We are still in critical drought conditions, so we're way behind the curve on snowpack in our watersheds," says Mike Alexander, director of the Douglas County Office of Emergency Management.
- He expects "significant fire potential for June and July."
By the numbers: Douglas County has seen wildfire calls rise over the past two decades, even with year-to-year fluctuations.
- The sheriff's office responded to 143 wildfire calls last year, up from 85 in 2015.
Be smart: Dylan Williams, the county's wildfire mitigation specialist, says home-hardening steps can make a difference if fires move into neighborhoods.
- Prioritize the 5 feet around your home by keeping the area noncombustible with rock, pavers or bare soil.
- Limb up trees at least 6 feet, or one-third the tree's height, and clear shrubs and other woody vegetation beneath canopies.
- Install ⅛-inch metal mesh screens in attic and foundation vents to keep embers from getting inside.
Zoom in: Newcomers should drive around to learn which exits funnel out of the neighborhood, in case of evacuation orders.
What they're saying: Talk with neighbors whose fire-readiness may be lagging.
- "Don't tell them what they're doing wrong," Williams says. "They might be new here and they don't know the risks and why defensible space matters."
The bottom line: With drought conditions and fire danger expected to spike, Douglas County residents should protect their homes, make evacuation plans, and get connected before summer arrives.
What's next: Learn about prevention strategies at Saturday's wildfire-preparedness open house in Castle Rock.
- And a May 20 wildfire town hall will be available online.