Courtesy of the City of Redmond

The National Interagency Fire Center’s Predictive Services Division Unit has issued the Wildland Fire Potential Outlook for the Pacific Northwest. As the summer progresses, the agency warns the latest climate outlooks for the remainder of July and into August and September have the potential to increase fire danger. While the agency states that Western Washington will not see the unusual extremes as in past years, August and September will be warmer and drier than typical conditions indicating an “above normal” significant fire potential for the region.

The Redmond Fire Department recommends learning about the dangers of wildfires and how neighborhoods can become “Firewise” communities to save homes and loved ones. Community members are invited to learn about Wildland Fire Safety and how to create defensible spaces around their homes from 6-8 p.m. on July 24 at the Redmond City Hall Council Chambers. King County Department of Natural Resources Firewise Communities expert, Linda Vane, will present the Firewise Safety Program to local residents.

Attendees will learn about simple tips that will help prevent their home from becoming fuel for a wildfire. For example, clearing a space around the home by reducing surrounding vegetation, pruning large trees, cleaning gutters and clearing eaves of leaves and debris helps remove ignitable dangers.

In addition to simple tips, the community meeting will share information on a local risk assessment for homeowners located close to potential wildfire areas. Maps of past wildfires in the area will be provided, and residents will have time to ask questions about how local jurisdictions respond to wildland fires in the region. This informational event is open to all residents of Redmond and King County Fire District 34.