NEW ONLINE TOOL CHARTS WILDFIRE RISK IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

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Source: County News Service

October 1, 2015 (San Diego’s East County) --As San Diego County enters the perilous fall wildfire season, you can now tap into a new online map to learn the level of fire risk in your immediate area and resources for finding help in an emergency.

The digital tool allows San Diegans to search the county by address or place name to learn the degree of wildfire hazard and how to better prepare for an emergency.

 Many of the county’s biggest blazes have struck in the fall, fed by Santa Ana winds and tinderbox conditions in the backcountry.

Supervisor Dianne Jacob says, “Wildfire is a year-round threat in our region, but fall can be especially brutal . The online map is an eye-opening reminder of the risks we face, but it also provides critical information on fire protection and preparedness.”

A link to the new Wildfire Hazard Map can be found at www.ReadySanDiego.org. It draws on existing data collected by California fire officials to assess conditions on properties statewide.

The map shows large areas of the county, mostly in the backcountry, are in “high” to “very high” hazard zones, as defined by state officials. Other areas fall into the “moderate” category or are not considered a serious risk.

When an address or place name is entered, the map provides the hazard designation, along with related links and information, including the name of the fire protection agency for that location, the closest fire station and a detailed guide to fire preparedness.

Many addresses also provide contact information for the local Fire Safe Council, a network of nonprofits that promote fire safety and preparedness.

The map is available on both desktop and mobile devices.


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