NFPA Firewise Communities Hits 600th Community Mark
Dec 2, 2010
The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA’s) Firewise Communities program today reached a milestone in announcing its 600th community, Elk Falls Ranch near Conifer, Colorado.
In total, 643 communities have committed to take sustained action to improve their own safety. Initiated in 2002 with a handful of neighborhoods, the Firewise Communities/USA® Recognition Program now boasts member communities in 40 states, as well as a participation retention rate of 90 percent.
“Being Firewise is the first step to improve our wildfire readiness,” said Joe Page, Elk Creek Fire Protection District training officer representing Elk Falls Ranch. “One of the beautiful things about Firewise is that you can start small and expand the program to fit your community’s needs. Earning Firewise recognition--especially at this 600th community milestone--is a reward for Elk Falls Ranch starting the process. We haven’t met our goal, our work is not done but it’s really about homeowners taking responsibility for their property,” said Page.
Elk Falls Ranch is particularly at risk for wildfire damage. The community is in close proximity to six wildfire sites where 166,950 acres have burned since 1996. It is also surrounded by Staunton State Park on three sides and has just one road providing access to the community of 144 homes amidst thick vegetation.
wow! congrats for helping yourself and your community.
bumper sticker - honk if you will pay my mortgage
"The problem with Socialism is that eventually you run out of other people's money." attributed to Margaret Thatcher
"A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government." Thomas Jefferson
