Submitted by the San Juan Islands Conservation District

Warmer and drier weather is just around the corner, so now is the time to concentrate on protecting your home and belongings in case of wildfire. The San Juan Islands Conservation District will be hosting a Firewise Communities informational gathering from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, May 19 at the Eastsound fire hall on Orcas Island.

In addition to SJICD Firewise staff, representatives from the National Fire Protection Association, Washington Department of Natural Resources and Orcas Fire and Rescue will be presenting and available for questions.

The term “wildfire” normally conjures images of eastern Washington; however, with changing climate conditions, the San Juans are becoming much too familiar with wildfire. The Cranberry Creek fire last summer brought the reality of wildfire to Anacortes. While island fire departments have done an outstanding job in putting out wildfires, implementing Firewise practices around your home and property helps make their job easier and safer. It may also be the difference between fire burning past your home and fire burning up your home. Please make time to attend this event to learn how to make your home and community safer from potential wildfires.

For information, contact Robert Walters at the conservation district at 378-6621 Ext. 305 or robert@sjicd.org